When we lose someone we love, we desire to honour their memory in the best way possible. One such noble way is through legacy cremation services, a thoughtful and respectful process that uses modern technology to transform a part of your loved one's ashes into a beautiful, enduring work of art. In this blog post, we delve into understanding what these services entail, the uniqueness of each memorial, and how to engage them.
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What are Legacy Cremation Services?
Legacy cremation services offer a unique way to remember and celebrate the life of a deceased loved one by turning their ashes into beautiful pieces of art, jewelry, or other types of memorials. Unlike traditional cremation, where ashes are handed over for scattering or burial, legacy cremation takes a portion of these ashes and transforms them into a lasting memento.
The Process
Legacy cremation involves a specialized process where a small portion of cremation ashes is skillfully incorporated into glass or ceramics. This process embeds the ashes within the art piece, creating unique swirls and patterns that are truly one-of-a-kind.
Types of Memorials
Legacy cremation services offer a multitude of memorial options, perfectly fitting each person’s unique style and preference. These may include:
- Legacy Glass Art: With a range of colors and shapes available, legacy glass art can be a brilliant way to remember your loved one.
- Memorial Jewelry: Ashes can be infused into pendants, rings, or bracelets, keeping your loved one close at all times.
- Memorial Sculptures: Whether simple or detailed, a sculpture imbued with your loved one’s ashes becomes a lasting tribute.
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Legacy Cremation Services Example:
Real-life Example of Legacy Cremation
Consider the story of Jane, who lost her beloved husband after 54 years of marriage. After he was cremated, a portion of the ashes was used by a legacy cremation service to create a stunning multi-colored glass paperweight. Jane chose a design that reminded her of the garden her husband spent hours tending. Now, the glasswork sits on a mantle overlooking that same garden, serving as a daily reminder of the love they shared and his enduring presence in her life.
Legacy cremation services provide a tangible and unique way of continuing a loved one’s legacy, keeping them close in a tangible, personal and artistic manner. If you have experienced a loss and are considering options for commemorating your loved one, legacy cremation could be the unique tribute you are looking for.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are legacy cremation services?
Legacy Cremation Services refer to cremation service providers that have established a tradition of offering dignified and respectful cremation services over the years. These providers often have a long history of assisting families with the cremation process, honoring the deceased's legacy through personalized and caring services.
Is cremation a more affordable option than traditional burial?
Yes, generally speaking, cremation can be a more cost-effective option compared to traditional burial. Cremation typically eliminates the need for expenses such as a casket, burial plot, and grave marker, which can substantially reduce the overall cost of final arrangements.
Can we have a funeral service with cremation?
Absolutely. You can arrange a traditional funeral service prior to the cremation or a memorial service afterwards with the cremated remains present. How you choose to honor your loved one is a personal decision and can be customized to fit your family's wishes and traditions.
What can be done with the ashes after cremation?
The options for a loved one's ashes are varied and personal. They can be kept in an urn, scattered at a meaningful location, buried in a cemetery plot, placed in a columbarium niche, transformed into memorial jewelry, or even incorporated into eco-friendly options such as planting trees.
How long does the cremation process take?
The cremation process itself typically takes several hours. However, the complete process, including necessary paperwork and preparations, can take a few days to a week or more depending on local laws, crematorium scheduling, and whether there are any ceremonies planned prior to cremation.
What are the legal requirements for cremation?
Legal requirements for cremation vary by region but generally include obtaining a death certificate, cremation authorization forms, and in some areas, a waiting period after death before cremation can occur. A medical examiner or coroner may also need to review the case and approve the cremation.
Is a casket required for cremation?
A casket is not required for cremation; however, the body must be placed in a combustible, rigid container for dignified handling and transportation to the crematory. This container is often a simple wooden or cardboard box that is cremated along with the body.
Can I personalize a cremation service?
Yes, there are many ways to personalize a cremation service. From the type of urn you choose to memorial services and the final disposition of the ashes, each aspect can be tailored to reflect the unique life and preferences of the deceased.
How can I be sure that the ashes I receive are those of my loved one?
Reputable cremation providers have strict procedures in place to ensure the correct identification of remains throughout the cremation process. These typically include careful labelling and tracking systems. You can discuss these procedures with the cremation services provider to understand and be reassured about their protocols.
Are there eco-friendly cremation options?
Yes, there are eco-friendlier cremation options available, such as water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, which uses water and an alkali solution to expedite natural decomposition. Additionally, you can choose biodegradable urns for the ashes if you aim for an environmentally-friendly disposition.
Can I still have a viewing if I choose cremation?
A viewing or visitation can still take place prior to the cremation. Some families opt for embalming for a more traditional viewing experience, while others choose a more informal or private family viewing without embalming.
What happens during the cremation process?
During the cremation process, the body is placed in a cremation chamber where it is subjected to high temperatures, typically between 1400 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, reducing it to bone fragments. These fragments are further processed into what is commonly referred to as ashes.
Is there a particular type of urn that is required to hold the ashes?
There is no particular type of urn that is required. You are free to choose an urn that fits your aesthetic preferences, budget, or the intended final disposition of the ashes. Urns are available in a variety of materials such as wood, metal, ceramic, and biodegradable options.
How do I make arrangements for a legacy cremation service?
To make arrangements for a legacy cremation service, you should contact a cremation service provider experienced in legacy services. They will guide you through choosing the appropriate services, completing necessary paperwork, and finalizing details like urn selection and memorial service planning.
Can cremation accommodate those of all faiths and beliefs?
Cremation is widely accepted among various faiths and belief systems. Some religions embrace cremation, while others may have specific guidelines or restrictions. It is essential to consult with your religious leader or family to ensure that cremation is in line with your beliefs.
What are the first steps to take when a loved one passes away unexpectedly at home?
If a loved one passes away unexpectedly at home, you should first call emergency services. They will guide you on the immediate next steps, including involving local authorities. Afterward, contact a funeral home or cremation service provider to start making arrangements.
Can we include cremation in pre-planned funeral arrangements?
Yes, cremation can be included as part of pre-planned funeral arrangements. Pre-planning can provide peace of mind, ensure wishes are respected, and can also lock in services at current prices, potentially saving money in the future.
How do I choose the right legacy cremation service provider?
To choose the right legacy cremation service provider, research and compare services, read reviews, ensure they have a good history and reputation, and assess how they handle your questions and concerns. Personal recommendations and consultations can also be helpful in making your decision.
What should be considered when choosing an urn?
When choosing an urn, consider the material, size, intended location (indoors, outdoors, or burial), personal style preferences, and budget. Some urns are designed specifically for display, while others are suitable for burial or scattering.
Is it possible to transport cremated remains?
Yes, it is possible to transport cremated remains. Each country or airline may have its own regulations, so it's important to verify these beforehand. Typically, an urn containing cremated remains can be carried as hand luggage, but it must pass through X-ray machines, so choose an urn made from a suitable material.
Can multiple family members be involved in the cremation arrangement process?
Certainly, the arrangement process for cremation can involve multiple family members. Collaborative planning can help ensure that the wishes of the deceased, as well as the needs and preferences of various family members, are taken into account.
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