When a loved one passes away, it’s up to the family and friends to make arrangements for an end-of-life memorial service. For those who oppose the idea of a traditional burial, cremation is a common choice. While most people are somewhat familiar with what cremation entails, few have a complete understanding of how to handle the process from start to finish. To begin, find a funeral director you feel comfortable with and gather some information about what to expect.

Everything You Need to Know About Cremation Services

Logistics 

When a body is cremated, the remains are presented to the family in an urn or returned to the earth, depending on the preferences of the departed or their loved ones. The decision as to what to do with the ashes depends entirely on the personal preferences of the family. While some religions suggest scattering the ashes on land or at sea, others prefer to keep the urn nearby as a symbol of the deceased. 

Cost

Cremation is just as affordable as a traditional burial. The price includes transportation of the body, the process of cremation, and any additional services handled by the funeral home. If you prefer, you can choose to purchase an urn or headstone to house the ashes. 

Personalization 

One of the most common misconceptions surrounding cremation is it leaves no room for personalization. In fact, many families who opt for cremation still hold a funeral or memorial service to honor the memory of their loved one. Ask your funeral home director to help you plan a service that reflects the accomplishments and accolades of the departed. Some choose to display photos around the urn or play music that inspires memories of the deceased. While the body is not present, the presence of the ashes is often enough to bring solace and comfort to the family while they grieve together. 

If you’re planning a funeral in Sparta, WI, or have more questions about cremation, get in touch with Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home. Since 1858, this group of compassionate professionals has made it their mission to provide gentle, comprehensive assistance to families who have recently lost someone they love. Offering constant support and access to every funeral-related resource, they’ll help you honor the memory of your loved one in a meaningful way. For more information, go online or reach out at (608) 269-6666.