Share:

When a spouse, close relative, or friend passes away, their survivors will often seek out ways to capture and preserve memories. Cremation services are momentous ways to honor loved ones. If you or someone in your family is considering this type of memorial and are unsure about what to do afterward, here are answers to several frequently asked questions.

A Guide to Cremation & Honoring Loved Ones

What happens after the cremation process?

Cremation will typically take two to three hours to complete. Once the process takes place, funeral home officials will carefully move the body's ashes into an urn or container previously chosen by the family. All individuals are clearly labeled by name and other personal identifiers. These are double-checked and verified to ensure accuracy before the cremation service.

How can the ashes be kept?

cremation services

In many cases, the deceased may have left specific cremation service instructions, including how they want their ashes kept. For example, some prefer to have them scattered at a favorite location such as a park, a local lake, or on private property. However, some states have laws and regulations about the spreading of ashes, so check those before taking action. 

If instructions are not provided, family members can choose to have the cremated remains placed in a garden, buried in a cemetery, or inurned in a columbarium. Funeral home staff can offer suggestions if you are unsure about what to do.

What are other ways the ashes can be maintained?

While decorative urns are traditional for keeping ashes, there are other creative options to consider. Some families may choose a sculptured piece designed to hold a loved one's remains. Necklaces, bracelets, and other jewelry items can also have special compartments for secure storage. Urns with candleholders are another popular selection. If privacy is a preference, everyday items, such as teddy bears, books, and planters, can provide a lifetime memorial. 

Can ashes be transferred from an urn to another container?

Transferring ashes from one container to another is possible, but you need to do it in a safe space. Choose an indoor area with minimal ventilation to prevent accidental spillage. Tape several layers of newspaper or parchment paper on a table, and place the destination container in the center. If the funeral home placed the remains in a temporary bag, carefully snip one corner and use a funnel to transfer the ashes. Enlist the help of another person to hold the new container steady.

 

Cremation is a befitting way to honor the life and legacy of a loved one. Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home in Sparta, WI, works closely with families to create unique and beautiful memorials. Their stellar reputation goes back to its founding in 1858 and extends today by offering customized cremation services. The team of this professional and licensed funeral home staff will go above and beyond to design a memorable funeral. Call (608) 269-6666 to learn more about cremation, and visit the website for the full lineup of services.

tracking