Cremation Information

CREMATION PRICES

ABOUT CREMATION

What is Cremation?

Cremation provides an alternative to ground burial.  It has become more common because it can be considerably less expensive than other services. 

Cremation is the process the body goes through.  During the cremation the body is exposed to temperatures from 1,500 to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit to reduce the body to ashes.  This process may take two to six hours depending on the size and frame of the person.  The ashes are actually the skeletal remains of the body.  All remains are swept into a cooling pan.  All items that are not destroyed like metal joints, bridgework and etc are removed and disposed of.  The remains are then reduced in size once again with a special machine.  The machine will make the remains uniform to fit in an urn.  The remains are then placed in a temporary cremation urn (usually made of plastic).  Depending on the size and frame of the person the remains will weigh approximately five pounds.

Can I Have a Viewing?

Full Service Cremation: A Full Service Cremation has all the same characteristics as a Traditional Funeral Service.  With Full Service Cremation the person is embalmed and placed in a casket for viewing.  Most commonly a rental casket is used.  A rental casket is a specially designed casket that allows for a removable insert.  The insert is removed with the person after each service and entered into the cremation process.  A new insert is installed after each service.  Also, you are able to select a traditional casket if you choose.  A family viewing followed by a public viewing is most common.  The funeral ceremony are usually immediately after the public viewing or the next day.  Services are usually concluded after the ceremony instead of proceeding to the cemetery.   Full Service Cremation is becoming more common because you can have a traditional viewing and funeral ceremony without the cemetery expense, omitting Burial Space, Vault, Digging of the Grave and Monument.

What is a Memorial Service?

The Memorial Service is a meaningful way to remember your loved one.  Friends and family can gather together and pay their respects before the Funeral Service.  With a Memorial Service the body is not present but the cremated remains of the person can be.  The remains can be displayed in an urn during the service.  Pictures and remembrance items can be displayed.  The Memorial Service and gathering can be held at the funeral home, church or a location of your choice.  Choosing a Memorial Service will expand your cremation options to the next level.

What is Direct Cremation?

Direct Cremation is the basic cremation option.  With Direct Cremation the person is transported from the place of death directly to the crematory.  The person will be cremated immediately after all necessary authorizations by law are obtained.  Generally no other services will be held.  Direct Cremation is simple and dignified.

Does My Religion Accept Cremation?

Cremation is accepted by most Christian denominations.  The Catholic Church accepts cremation as long as it is not chosen for reasons which are contrary to Christian teachings. It is best to inquire with your own clergy or church to determine whether cremation is accepted.

What is the Cremation Chamber or Retort?

The Cremation Chamber is the place where the body is placed for cremation.  It is brick lined and built to accept extreme temperatures.

How Do I Know These Are The Correct Ashes?

Only one person is to be cremated at one time.  A metal identification tag is present with the person during the entire cremation process and left inside the urn.  The identification tag will provide an ID number and crematory name for future tracing if needed.  State law and regulations provide guidelines for all crematories.  Random audits are conducted by the state as well.  The crematory has many safe guards in place to assure the proper return of the correct ashes.  The cremation chamber is brushed completely as possible after each cremation.  All remains of the person are returned except minute particles that are impossible to remove from the cremation chamber or processing machine.  Witness the cremation: For a fee you can view the start to finish of the cremation process.

Can I View The Cremation Process?

Yes, for a fee you can view the start to finish process of the cremation.  A family remote start option is also available.  Only a limited number of people can attend the cremation.

Do I Need To Purchase A Casket?

No, you are not required to purchase a casket for cremation.  However, you may purchase any casket for cremation.  Midlawn will include an alternative container for cremation.  Sate law requires a person to be cremated using an alternative container.  An alternative container is constructed of wood or cardboard and made to encase the body for cremation.  The alternative container will meet the minimum requirement of the state.

Do I Need To Purchase An Urn?

No, you are not required to purchase an urn.  However, you may purchase an upgraded urn.  Midlawn will provide a temporary urn usually made of black or brown plastic suitable for transportation.  If burying the urn check the cemetery regulations to see if allowed.

Is Embalming Required For Cremation?

No, Missouri does not have a law that requires embalming.  Embalming may be necessary if you select arrangements with a viewing or under certain cases.  Preservation of the body is required 24 hours after death.  Refrigeration or embalming can be used to preserve the body after 24 hours.  Refrigeration is mostly used to preserve the body before cremation.

What Can Be Done With The Ashes?

The ashes can be buried or placed in a columbarium at a cemetery.  The ashes can be placed at home on display.  The ashes can be divided using keepsake or portion urns.  Cremation jewelry is becoming more popular as well.  For scattering ashes you should obtain permission before doing so.  Scattering on private property could result in loss of privilege to visit site in the future.  Check rules with public places such as parks before scattering ashes.

What Is A Columbarium or Mausoleum Cremation Niche?

A Columbarium or Cremation Niche is a dedicated final resting place that is above ground generally made of re-enforced concrete with a granite facing.  Above ground means the urn is kept clean, dry and secure.  Names and dates are placed on the outside of the niche for visitors to view.  The best aspect of the mausoleum is all burial arrangements are solved with one decision.