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A Funeral not only recognizes that a death has occurred,
but it also is a testimony that a life has been lived.
At this busy and confusing time, there are many decisions to be made. Some of these decisions will be on behalf of the deceased, and some will be on behalf of your family. For many, a traditional ceremony like those of many generations before will be required, but it is increasingly common that families are choosing more personalized services to better represent the person whom has passed away. The following information is provided to offer a clearer understanding of some of the items that will be needed for the service - to help you make informed, not emotional, choices.
Casket:
 A casket serves as a functional place of storage for the deceased. However, most people perceive it as much more than that. They see it as a loved one's last resting place, and therefore families and friends are often concerned about what kind of casket to purchase. For those lost unexpectedly, this is often a bewildering choice to make because the living simply do not know what the deceased would have wanted. Wade's trained staff of experienced funeral directors will be happy to assist you in making this choice. However, for your convenience, we have pictured several options from which to choose. This is only a small sampling of what is available. We hope that it will familiarize you with the range of options, so you feel better prepared when you come in to our selection room.
There are two types of caskets:
- Wood
- Metal
Vaults:
 In many areas of the country, state or local law do not require that you buy a vault. A vault is used to protect the casket in the grave, and prevent it from sinking. The weight of the earth and the heavy equipment used to dig grave sites far exceeds the weight of an unprotected casket. Burial vaults are made of a special reinforced concrete that is designed to protect against these elements. Although some do not, most cemeteries do require a burial vault. Your Wade Funeral Director will be able to advise you on the laws of the cemetery that you have chosen. If a vault is required, there are many different styles, sizes and weights. Ask your Wade Funeral Director to show you a full selection of vaults. Or click here for more information.
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 remains. 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Urns
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:
For a more complete selection, please visit us, or, make an inquiry. | 
