Cremation Process

Making funeral arrangements for a loved one can be very difficult.  Cremation Options has provided this information for you as an explanation of the cremation process so that you will be well informed before making this your choice of final disposition.  Please keep in mind, once cremation takes place it is final and irreversible.

When someone passes and cremation is the choice, the human remains of the deceased are placed in a combustible casket or alternative container and delivered to the crematory.  Once all state laws are in accordance and proper authorizations are signed by the family, the deceased is placed in either a casket or alternative container and placed inside the cremation chamber.  The incineration of all contents is completed by substantially increasing the temperature (average maximum temperature is 1400-2000 degrees Fahrenheit) until combustion is reached.  This takes about 2-3 hours. All substances disintegrate except bone fragments (calcium compounds) and metal.  Any personal possessions or valuable materials that are not removed from the deceased prior to cremation taking place will be destroyed.  The funeral director will ask you if you would like to have any possessions removed prior to transportation to the crematory.

After the cooling period, the cremated remains will be swept from the chamber.  The crematory operator will make all reasonable efforts to remove all particles from the chamber.  Understand that it is impossible to remove all of them, as some dust and other minute fragments from the process will linger.  The fact is that during the cremation process residue from previous cremations may be left behind; this you must accept if cremation is your choice.  After the bone fragments are swept from the chamber they will be mechanically processed.  Finally the bone fragments will be crushed or ground which may cause incidental blending of the cremains with residue from processing previous cremated remains.

Once the cremation process is complete, the cremated remains will be placed into a decorative urn or temporary receptacle that was selected by the family.  The crematory operator will make a reasonable effort to place all of the cremated remains in the selected container with the exception of dust or other residue that may remain in the processing equipment.  The funeral director will retrieve the cremated remains from the crematory and deliver or dispose of them as directed by the family.

Now you must decide what will be done with the cremated remains.  There are many options to choose from.  A memorial gathering/service can be held with the cremated remains present so that family and friends can gather in honor of the deceased.  They can be buried at a cemetery, placed in a niche/mausoleum, kept at home or scattered at sea or on land.  Please take time to explore our website to view all the options.  Our professional staff is here 24 hours a day to answer all of your questions and concerns.  We strive to meet every individual family’s needs.  We will make this difficult experience as easy as possible for you.  For more information regarding the cremation process, please complete the contact us form and brochures will be mailed to you promptly.