Pederson-Volker Funeral Chapel & Cremation Services

What is Cremation, and Why is it Gaining Popularity?

Cremation is a dignified and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional burial. It involves the reduction of the body to its basic elements through high-temperature burning, resulting in a set of ashes that can be scattered, buried, or kept in an urn.

With the growing awareness of climate change and the increasing cost of traditional funerals, cremation has become a more appealing option for many. It's a way to reduce your carbon footprint, save money, and still pay tribute to your loved one in a meaningful way.

The Cremation Process: What to Expect

At Pederson-Volker Funeral Chapel & Cremation Services, we understand that the cremation process can be unfamiliar to many. That's why we're committed to guiding you through every step, from preparation to final disposition.

• Preparation: We will work with you to prepare your loved one for cremation, including washing, dressing, and cosmetizing the body.
• Cremation: The body is placed in a cremation chamber, where it is exposed to high temperatures, reducing it to ashes.
• Processing: The ashes are then processed into a fine powder, known as cremated remains, which can be returned to you in an urn.
• Final Disposition: You can choose to scatter the ashes, bury them, or keep them in an urn – we can help you with any of these options.

Cremation Services: Personalized and Compassionate

At Pederson-Volker Funeral Chapel & Cremation Services, we believe that every life is unique, and every farewell should be too. That's why we offer a range of cremation services to suit your needs and preferences.

• Direct Cremation: A simple, cost-effective option that includes cremation and the return of the ashes.
• Cremation with Memorial Service: A more personalized option that includes a memorial service, allowing you to celebrate your loved one's life with family and friends.
• Full Service Cremation: Our most comprehensive option, which includes a funeral service, cremation, and final disposition.

Cremation Urns and Memorialization: Honoring Your Loved One

Once the cremation process is complete, you'll need to decide how to memorialize your loved one. We offer a range of cremation urns, from traditional to eco-friendly options, to suit your needs and preferences.

• Traditional Urns: Made from materials like bronze, copper, or wood, these urns offer a classic, timeless design.
• Eco-Friendly Urns: Made from biodegradable materials like bamboo or recycled paper, these urns are a sustainable option for those who want to minimize their environmental impact.
• Scattering Urns: Designed for scattering ashes, these urns are often made from natural materials like wood or stone.

Planning Ahead: The Benefits of Pre-Planning Your Cremation

While it may seem difficult to think about, pre-planning your cremation can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones. By making your wishes known, you can ensure that your farewell is carried out according to your preferences, while also saving your family from having to make difficult decisions during a time of grief.

• Lock in Costs: Pre-planning allows you to lock in costs at today's prices, protecting your family from future inflation.
• Ensure Your Wishes: By making your wishes known, you can ensure that your farewell is carried out according to your preferences.
• Reduce Stress: Pre-planning can reduce the emotional burden on your loved ones, allowing them to focus on celebrating your life rather than making difficult decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions: Cremation and Beyond

We understand that you may have questions about cremation, memorialization, and the funeral process. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions:

1. What is the cost of cremation?

The cost of cremation varies depending on the services you choose. At Pederson-Volker Funeral Chapel & Cremation Services, we offer transparent pricing to help you make informed decisions.

2. Can I still have a funeral or memorial service with cremation?

Yes, you can still have a funeral or memorial service with cremation. We offer a range of service options to suit your needs and preferences.

3. How long does the cremation process take?

The cremation process typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on the size of the body and the type of cremation chamber used.

4. What happens to the ashes after cremation?

The ashes are returned to you in an urn, which you can choose to scatter, bury, or keep in a special place.

5. Is cremation environmentally friendly?

Yes, cremation is a more environmentally friendly option than traditional burial. It reduces the need for land use, embalming fluids, and other resources.

Resources and Community Support: Your Next Steps

At Pederson-Volker Funeral Chapel & Cremation Services, we're committed to supporting you every step of the way. Here are some resources and community support options to help you navigate the grieving process:

• Grief Support Groups: Join our online or in-person grief support groups to connect with others who have experienced a loss.
• Memorialization Options: Explore our range of memorialization options, from traditional headstones to eco-friendly urns.
• Pre-Planning Resources: Learn more about pre-planning your cremation and funeral services with our online resources and planning tools.