Many people are unaware that there are actually additional services families can choose when it comes to cremation services in Willits, CA. Today we are going to over the three most common types of cremation and what services are included in each. 

What is Cremation? 

Although cremation is becoming more widely known and accepted, some people may still be unfamiliar with this process. Cremation is simply another form of body disposition. With cremation the body is set into a cremation chamber and, with the use of very high heat, is reduced to its mineral fragments. These mineral fragments are what people refer to as “cremains” or “ashes”. The cremation is just part oof the overall process with other services such as funeral and visitations also being added. Let’s look at these now. 

Cremation with Funeral Service 

Many people may be surprised to know that you can still hold a traditional funeral service with a cremation. This funeral service can be religious in nature as many religions accept cremation as a means of body disposition (but note that some have rules on how the ashes should be handled). 

A funeral service with cremation is just like that of one with a ground burial except after the service, the body is taken to the crematory rather than the cemetery. This means that because the body is present, it will need to be prepared and embalmed. Also, families will need to either purchase or rent a casket for the service. Because of these added costs, this is typically the most expensive cremation package. 

Cremation with Memorial Service 

A memorial service is most often held after the body has been disposed and the ashes returned to the family in an urn. The family may choose to have this urn present at the service while other families may choose not to. 

With the body being disposed prior to the services, there is no need for embalming or other services in preparing the body, therefore, this cremation type is less expensive than one with a funeral service. Not only that, but because the body has already been disposed, families can take more time to plan the service as well as have more flexibility when reserving rooms and such for the service. 

Cremation with No Services 

The least expensive cremation type is a cremation with no services. Direct cremation, or simple cremation, as this is called is simply the cremation services with no additional events. Many families may choose this option because it eliminates the burden of planning a service. When a loved one passes away, there is already so much to think about and handle. Not having to plan a service can be welcomed option for some families. 

Final Thoughts 

You can see for families who choose cremation services in Willits, CA., there are many additional services that can be held as well. This may be one of the reasons cremation is gaining in popularity with it being chosen just as much, if not more, than ground burials in some areas. If you would like to learn more or have additional questions, we are here and happy to talk with you anytime.