Understading Cremation

Cremation is also an option for those who prefer a non-religious ceremony or do not want their loved ones to endure viewing their body. If a person chooses to be cremated, the rituals surrounding their departure can have as much or as little formality as desired.

Myths About Cremation:

1. There is no need for a casket.
   When a family chooses cremation, yet wants a traditional funeral service, most crematoriums require a casket or some type of combustible container be used. If you choose to have a memorial service only, an inexpensive container may be purchased for the cremation. At the memorial service, photo representations of the departed will serve as the focus of the ceremony.
   
   
2. There is no need for a funeral director
   A Funeral Director serves in many capacities. Whenever a death occurs, the services of a Funeral Director are needed. In the case of cremation, a funeral director still makes the first call to the family, embalms the body, assists in the casket or container selection, and conducts the service.
   
   
3. Cremation remains are like cigarette ashes
   Cremation remains are recognizable skeletal fragments of the human form. They weigh from 6 to 12 pounds for adults, depending on their size, and occupy about 175 cubic inches of space. Cremation remains are very much human remains and should be regarded as such. They should be placed in a dedicated place such as a mausoleum, family plot, or in the home of a loved one. Although the deceased may have left a request for his or her remains to be scattered over a designated area, this is not permitted in some areas. Check with your Wade Funeral Director before scattering areas within St. Louis city limits. Or, click here to request information.
   
   

Much like casket selection, urn selection is a very personal thing. For your convenience, Wade Funeral Home offers a wide variety of urns for the remains of your loved ones. Below are four examples:

Sample Crematon Urns: