Cremation is the process through which the person’s body becomes ash, through intense heat and preparation. This is done in special crematoriums, and entails different procedures than other burials. Cremations are less expensive than a casket burial but cost more than a green burial.

For the process of cremation, the funeral home or crematorium works with the family to make arrangements. Cremation is often convenient, but does have a significant environmental impact. The process requires sufficient fossil fuel to sustain a temperature of 1400º – 1700º F for up to four hours. There also is a variety of air pollutants, i.e., particulate matter, carbon monoxide, mercury, and dioxin, which result from the substances burned and the combustion process itself. More information is on the Cremation Process of North America website.

Facts and Resources about Cremation and BUCA:

• Location: In all four of our cemeteries cremation burial is allowed. Yet, only in Center Cemetery and Trow Cemetey are new graves available.
• Specification: You can have three cremated remains in one regular size lot, which is a significant savings when several people plan to be buried together.
• Costs: Cremation is usually a middle option in terms of cost. There will be funeral home costs to consider as well. A sample cost is on the Smith & Kelleher General Price List website, under “Cremation”. Cremation still requires burial site preparation.
• Resources: Please see our Resources page for detailed lists. A sample of resources for cremation includes…
  • A local resource for natural urns is Fraser Baskets
  • Ashes of loved ones can be made into special mementos, through many different services.
  • Other baskets and options: Florence Casket Company
  • Monuments: Negus & Taylor

See other burial options: Green Burials and Casket Burials

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