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Are you considering Forest Lawn for a cremation service, but are unsure of what it involves or how to plan for it? In this post, we will provide a detailed overview of the Forest Lawn Cremation process, outlining what to expect and providing some tips for planning a poignant funeral service.
What is Forest Lawn Cremation?
Forest Lawn is known for its beautiful memorial parks, art collection, and architectural gems but it also offers comprehensive funeral services, including cremation. They pride themselves on offering compassionate and professional services to families during challenging times.
Cremation Services at Forest Lawn
Each Forest Lawn location offers an array of services and options for your loved one's cremation. These include:
- Private Family Estates: For those who want a personal sanctuary, Forest Lawn offers unique secluded garden areas that are perfect for reflection and remembrance.
- Indoor and outdoor niches: These provide a secure, weather-proof place to hold the ashes of your loved one.
- Scattering gardens: A serene place where ashes can be scattered (if allowed by local laws).
- Personalized urns and mementos: Forest Lawn offers a variety of options for storing your loved one's ashes or creating a lasting reminder of them.
Tips for Planning a Cremation Service
While Forest Lawn will provide support and guidance throughout this process, there are some aspects you should consider as you plan a cremation service:
- Know your loved one's wishes: If possible, discuss with your loved one in advance about their desires for cremation and memorial service. This can help guide your decisions and ensure their wishes are respected.
- Consider your budget: Cremation services can vary in cost. It's important to have a clear budget in mind to avoid unwelcome surprises.
- Pick a suitable memorial: Think about what kind of memorial or tribute will best honour your loved one. This could be a niche, a scattering garden, or even a keepsake urn.
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Forest Lawn Cremation Example:
Let's take an example of a family opting for a Forest Lawn cremation service. They choose a private family estate, allowing a restricted charming area for the family to remember their loved one. They opt for an artisan urn, crafted meticulously to reflect their loved one's personality. A simple, poignant service, with readings from favourite poems and songs, helped the family to recall cherished memories and bid their loved one achingly farewell.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cremation and how does it work?
Cremation is a process in which the body of the deceased is exposed to high temperatures, typically between 1400 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, resulting in the reduction of the body to its basic chemical compounds in the form of ashes. The process takes place in a specially designed furnace known as a cremator and usually takes two to three hours to complete.
Is Forest Lawn Cremation affiliated with a particular religious faith or denomination?
Forest Lawn Cremation serves individuals of all faiths and beliefs. We respect the diversity of traditions and ceremonies and tailor our services accordingly to meet the needs of each family's unique preferences.
Can a memorial service be held prior to the cremation?
Yes, families can hold a memorial service before the cremation process. It's common for loved ones to conduct a viewing or a traditional service as a way to say goodbye prior to cremation at Forest Lawn Cremation facilities or a location of your choosing.
How does Forest Lawn ensure the remains I receive are those of my loved one?
Forest Lawn Cremation employs strict identification procedures to ensure the integrity of the cremation process. This includes the use of identification tags and meticulous paperwork to track the remains from the moment we receive the deceased until the ashes are returned to the family.
What are the options for the final disposition of the ashes?
There are several options for final disposition, including burial in a cemetery plot, placement in a columbarium niche, keeping the ashes at home in an urn, scattering the ashes in a meaningful location with the appropriate permissions, or even incorporating them into memorial objects or jewelry.
What kind of urn will I need to purchase for the cremated remains?
The choice of urn is a personal decision and can range from simple and economical to elaborate and customized. Forest Lawn Cremation provides a selection of urns for various tastes and budgets, or you may provide your own.
Is embalming required before cremation?
Embalming is not a legal requirement before cremation, but may be recommended or required by the facility if there is a public viewing or ceremony involving the deceased's body prior to the cremation.
Can family members witness the cremation?
Forest Lawn Cremation offers the option for families to be present during the cremation process if they wish. This can be arranged through pre-planning discussions with our staff.
How long after death does cremation take place?
Cremation can typically take place within a few days after death once all necessary authorizations and paperwork have been completed. However, the specific timing can vary depending on the circumstances and any rituals or ceremonies that the family wishes to perform beforehand.
What paperwork is required for cremation?
Necessary documents for cremation include a Cremation Authorization Form, a death certificate, and any permits required by local and state laws. Forest Lawn Cremation staff assists families in obtaining and completing these documents.
Are there items that cannot be cremated with the body?
There are certain items that should not be cremated with the body for safety reasons, such as pacemakers, which must be removed, as well as other non-combustible materials or items that could cause environmental concerns. Our staff provides guidance on what can and cannot be included.
What happens to prosthetics or medical devices during cremation?
Prosthetics and medical devices are removed before cremation due to the potential hazards they may pose during the process. Metals that remain after cremation are typically recovered and responsibly recycled.
Can I plan my cremation arrangements in advance?
Absolutely. Many people find peace of mind in pre-planning their cremation arrangements. Forest Lawn Cremation's pre-planning services include selecting services and merchandise in advance and even pre-paying to lock in current prices.
Is cremation more environmentally friendly than burial?
Cremation may be considered more environmentally friendly than traditional burial due to the reduced use of land and elimination of embalming fluids. However, it does require the use of fuel and results in emissions. Forest Lawn is committed to utilizing technology that minimizes environmental impact.
What are some personalization options for a cremation service?
Personalization of cremation services can include the choice of music, readings, displays of personal items, photo tributes, and even the location of the service. The staff at Forest Lawn Cremation can help coordinate arrangements that truly reflect the individual's life and legacy.
Is it possible to have a combination of burial and cremation?
Yes, some families choose to have a loved one's cremated remains buried in a traditional cemetery plot or placed in a family crypt. This combines the tradition of burial with the simplicity of cremation.
What is a "green" cremation?
Green cremation, also known as bio-cremation or water cremation, uses a process called alkaline hydrolysis, which has a lower environmental impact than traditional cremation. This is an alternative service that may be provided by some facilities, including Forest Lawn Cremation.
How do I choose the right cremation service provider?
Choosing the right cremation service provider involves considering their reputation, the services they offer, the transparency of their pricing, and how comfortable and supported you feel during the process. Forest Lawn Cremation is committed to providing compassionate and professional service.
Can I arrange for cremation online or over the phone?
Yes, arrangements for cremation can often be made online or over the phone for convenience and to accommodate those who cannot make it to the facility in person. Forest Lawn Cremation provides these options along with professional guidance.
How are the cremated remains returned to the family?
Once the cremation process is complete, the ashes are placed in the urn selected by the family or a temporary container if no urn was chosen. They can be returned to the family in person by our staff, shipped with authorization, or arranged for pickup at our facility according to the family's preference.
Losing a loved one is tough, and planning a cremation service at Forest Lawn or elsewhere can at times feel overwhelming. Remember, it's about honouring the memory of your loved one in a way that feels right to you. Let this guide be a starting point for your journey. Please do share this post with others who may find it helpful and explore other guides on Eulogy Assistant for more advice and support.