Top 3 Most Commonly Asked Questions About Cremation

While once cremation services in Streamwood, IL were not near as common as ground burials, this is rapidly changing. More and more families and individuals are choosing cremation as their end-of-life arrangements. With cremation becoming more mainstream, people that once never considered it are now more curious about it. Due to this, we are hearing a lot more questions being asked about this form of body disposition. Here are the top three questions we most commonly get asked.

Does a Body Have to be Embalmed With Cremation?

To answer this questions, it is important to first know what the goal of embalming a body is. This process is performed on a body to slow the act of it decomposing. While it doesn’t stop it completely, it does slow it down so that their can be time for the body to be viewed. This could be with a service such as a viewing or a funeral.

While the actually act of cremation does not require a body to be embalmed, if a family wishes to hold services prior to the cremation, such as a funeral, it is recommended that the body be embalmed.

Can I Have a Funeral With Cremation?

Yes, you can have a funeral or any other service you wish in coordination with a cremation. Many families hold services such a visitation and a funeral before their loved one’s cremation. These services work just the same way as they would if the body was going to then be buried.

The exception to this rule is if the family chooses what is called “direct cremation”. This type of cremation service is very fast and does not allow time prior to the cremation for any services to be held. However, families may still hold services after the cremation such as a casting ceremony, celebration of life event, or memorial service.

Is Cremation Really Less Expensive Than Ground Burials?

This is one of the most common questions we hear. The answer is yes and no. As mentioned before, direct cremation is a very fast and very minimal creation process with no services held prior to the cremation. This means that no additional services have to be held such as embalming the body or preparing it with things such as hair and makeup. Because families are only paying for the cremation service itself, this option is typically the less expensive option.

However, if the family wishes to hold services prior, then additional cots will include things like renting a casket, embalming, and hair and makeup, along with other fees associated with funerals such as flowers, funeral programs, etc. These services can make cremation cost just as much, if not more that ground burials depending on what the family chooses.

If you would like more information about cremation services in Streamwood, IL, give us a call or come by today. Our cremation directors are more than happy to talk with you one-on-one and answer all your questions and concerns. We look forward to helping you.