Complete Guide to Cremation Services and Costs for Calgary Families
Cremation has become the most common choice for final arrangements in Canada, offering flexibility, affordability, and environmental benefits. This guide covers everything you need to know about cremation services, from understanding the process to comparing costs and options.
Table of Contents
Understanding Cremation Options in Calgary
There are several types of cremation services available, each designed to meet different needs and preferences.
Types of Cremation Services
- Direct cremation - the most affordable option with no viewing or ceremony
- Cremation with memorial service - includes a ceremony after cremation
- Traditional service followed by cremation - includes viewing and ceremony before cremation
- Witness cremation - family can be present for the cremation process
- Private family viewing before cremation
- Green cremation options - eco-friendly alternatives
Additional Service Options
- Celebration of life ceremonies
- Scattering ceremonies
- Keepsake jewelry and urns
- Memorial gardens and columbaria
- Online memorial tributes
- Video streaming services for remote family members
- Custom memorial merchandise
Cremation Costs Explained in Calgary
Understanding cremation costs helps families make informed decisions while staying within their budget.
Basic Cremation Costs
- Direct cremation services (typically $2,000-$3,000)
- Cremation container or casket
- Urn or container for ashes
- Death certificates and permits
- Transportation and professional services
- Medical examiner fees
- Crematory fees
Optional Services and Costs
- Memorial service or celebration of life
- Viewing or visitation period
- Obituary and memorial cards
- Keepsake items and jewelry
- Scattering or interment of ashes
- Catering and reception services
- Custom urns and memorials
- Video tributes and photography
Environmental Considerations in Calgary
Cremation often has a lower environmental impact compared to traditional burial, making it an eco-conscious choice.
Environmental Benefits
- Reduced land use compared to traditional burial
- Lower carbon footprint over time
- Fewer materials used in the process
- Options for eco-friendly urns and containers
- Sustainable memorial options
- Water-based cremation alternatives
- Natural scattering gardens
Legal and Religious Considerations in Calgary
Understanding the legal requirements and religious perspectives on cremation is important for making an informed decision.
Legal Requirements
- Required documentation and permits
- Authorization for cremation
- Transportation regulations
- Scattering regulations and restrictions
- Storage and handling requirements
- Provincial and municipal laws
Religious and Cultural Aspects
- Different religious views on cremation
- Cultural traditions and ceremonies
- Customary waiting periods
- Ash handling customs
- Memorial practices by faith
- Modern adaptations of traditional rituals
Frequently Asked Questions About Funeral Planning in Calgary
Q: How long does the cremation process take?
The actual cremation process typically takes 2-3 hours, but the entire arrangement process, including paperwork and scheduling, usually takes 3-5 days.
Q: What happens during a direct cremation?
Direct cremation is the simplest option where the body is cremated shortly after death, without a viewing or ceremony. It includes basic services like transportation, paperwork, and the cremation process.
Q: Can we still have a memorial service with cremation?
Yes, you can have any type of memorial service before or after cremation. Many families choose to hold a celebration of life or memorial service with the urn present.
Q: What are the options for the cremated remains?
There are many options including keeping the ashes in an urn at home, scattering them in a meaningful location, interring them in a columbarium, or creating memorial jewelry or art.
Q: How do I choose a cremation provider?
Compare providers based on their transparency about costs, services offered, reviews, and whether they own their crematory. Ask about their process, timeline, and how they ensure proper identification throughout.
Q: Is embalming required for cremation?
No, embalming is not required for cremation. However, if you plan to have a viewing or service with the body present before cremation, embalming may be recommended.
Q: What type of container is required for cremation?
A combustible container is required by law. This can be a simple cardboard container or a traditional casket. The container must be completely combustible, leak-proof, and sturdy enough to handle the weight.
Q: Can family members witness the cremation?
Yes, many crematories allow family members to witness the beginning of the cremation process. This is known as a witness cremation and can be an important part of the grieving process for some families.
Q: What are the environmental impacts of cremation?
While cremation has a lower environmental impact than traditional burial in terms of land use, it does release emissions. Water-based cremation and other eco-friendly options are becoming available as alternatives.
Q: How do I transport cremated remains?
Cremated remains can be transported personally or shipped. For air travel, carry them in a non-metallic container that can be x-rayed. For shipping, use registered mail and follow postal service requirements.
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