Cremation

In recent years, cremation has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional burial. Like burial or entombment, cremation is simply another way in which the body is handled after death.

There is great misconception among the general public that, at the time of death, only two basic choices exist: immediate cremation of the deceased or a traditional funeral that includes viewing and burial. As you will see, that is simply not the case.

At Kuratko-Nosek Funeral Home, we offer many options to families who choose cremation as a means of final disposition. Just like burial, cremation can occur following a funeral where the casket is present. The only difference between a funeral followed by burial and one followed by cremation is that the deceased is taken to the crematory after the service instead of in a procession to the cemetery. The funeral itself may be preceded by the traditional funeral home visitation. During this time, the casket may be open or closed in accordance with the family preference. As an additional alternative, a private gathering for family and close friends may be held in lieu of a public visitation.

Memorial Service

Many families who have chosen cremation elect to conduct a memorial service to honor their loved one, which is like a funeral except the deceased is not present. In this instance, the cremation has already taken place and the family may wish to have the urn they have selected present. The urn may be placed on a table and is frequently surrounded by pictures, flowers and other items symbolic of the deceased.

Direct Cremation

An immediate or direct cremation is the prompt cremation of the deceased following death without a funeral or memorial service.

In all of the instances described above, the ashes, or cremains of the deceased, are returned to the family following cremation. The ashes may be buried, scattered at a special site or placed in a memorial urn.