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 may not be availble after certain hours or on certain days. If the unit is damaged (scratched, dented, defect, etc) upon arrival, you will be notified immediately by our firm, and the unit will be sent back, but 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, We recommend using our rental casket if cremation following a funeral is being chosen.

Q:

Why must a burial vault (receptacle) 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 protective 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 installation and sales tax.

Q:

Why is embalming necessary?

A:

Emblaming is a public health guard, aiding to destroy most pathogens associated with death. The embalming procedure restores and preserves the deceased so that planning a funeral with viewing is possible, even several days after a death. Embalming assures that the natural unpleasant changes that might have taken place do not happen. Embalming is NOT necessary for direct cremation or burial, however it may be required for entombment. It is required by our establishment for public viewing and/or visiting hours, or, for keeping the deceased for more than 24 hours without refridgeration.