Q:

Can I have viewing hours and a funeral, and then be cremated?

A:

Yes. Many families consider this option because it allows time for visiting hours and a funeral ceremony. All services that one might find in a tradtional type funeral (embalming, visiting and viewing hours and funeral ceremony) would take place. The only difference is this: instead of a funeral procession to a cemetery for burial (or mausoleum for entombment) the casketed body is proceeded to the crematory, The ashes are later returned to the family for their decision on burial, entombment, keeping or scattering the ashes.

Q:

I bought a casket from a different company, is that OK?

A:

This is known as a "third party purchase" , and it is OK as long as you understand the following: There may be a waiting period for it's delivery. Most companies that provide this merchandise require a 24 hour notice, and they may not be available after certain hours, or on certain days. If the unit is damaged (scratched or dented) upon arrival, you will be notified immediately by our firm. If we cannot contact you, and the merchandise is delivered to us, you may not be able to exchange the casket, and the funeral you have planned may be delayed. Considering a casket from our selection on hand that you can inspect is the only way we can guarantee your satisfaction of choice. It's NOT OK to assume that cremation can take place after a viewing or funeral ceremony if a metal casket has been purchased because this interferes with the legal and ethical situation of disposing of a used casket. A wood casket can be used in this situation, as it would be reduced to ashes separately, however, we recommend our rental casket if there will be cremation following a viewing and funeral.

Q:

Why must a burial vault be used for ground burial?

A:

It is NOT a state law that requires a burial receptacle (vault) purchase, but it IS required by every cemetery in the State of Michigan. There is good reason for this, as a concrete enclosure (burial receptacle) keeps the ground from collapsing. There are many grades of burial receptacles, starting with the least expensive "grave liner" (an unsealed concrete structure). The next choices include (1) a sealed, but unlined concrete structure, (2) a sealed and rigid lined concrete structure, (3) a metal lined (stainless steel, copper or bronze) concrete structure. Please keep in mind that other charges may apply to your purchase which may include delivery, installation and sales tax.

Q:

Why is embalming necessary?

A:

Emblaming is a public health guard, aiding to destroy most common pathogens associated with disease and death. The embalming procedure preserves and sanitizes the deceased, and helps restore as close to living appearance as scientifically possible. Embalming is NOT necessary for direct cremation or burial, however it may be required for entombment. Embalming is required by our establishment for public viewing and visiting hours, or, for keeping the deceased for more than 24 hours.