Cremation

Although cremation dates back to ancient times, it has only recently become a more common choice throughout the United States. Since you are thinking about cremation, you may want to know more about the many options which are available to you. Whether you are currently in need, or planning in advance for yourself or a family member, we hope this information will help you in reaching your decisions on the various choices associated with cremation.

Many people believe that choosing cremation means limiting your options. Actually, there are a variety of options available with cremation. Most families hold services, which help the bereaved cope with the loss of a loved one. We at Anderson Funeral Home are available to answer any questions about the cremation process or procedure and provide you with guidance throughout the entire planning process.

Cremation Followed by Memorial Services

The simplest cremation service is that of having a cremation without any visitation or viewing followed by Memorial Services at a church or the funeral home chapel.

You may choose to have the cremated remains present in an urn for the services or you may want them buried before or after services. This may vary depending on your religious background and your family's personal preferences.

Visitation or Funeral Services Followed by Cremation

The visitation or funeral ceremony, very simply, is a declaration of a death. It is, of course, intended for the living, offering family and friends the opportunity to come together, respond to each other, and show support to those who are left behind.

Viewing of the body helps many people better accept the death, and can have far-reaching psychological benefits.

Anderson Funeral Home has available a solid oak "Viewing Casket" with a cremation liner that many families select for this purpose. A simple cloth-covered wood casket can also be used should you prefer the entire casket be cremated.

The visitation and/or funeral services can be held in a church of your choice, or at the funeral home.

Options for Final Disposition

Many families choose burial of the cremated remains, most cemeteries (including Fort Snelling National Cemetery) have special sections of smaller gravesites specifically designed for this. Some cemeteries allow you to inter the cremains on an existing family plot above a previous burial.

For those preferring a permanent above ground memorial, many cemeteries now offer what is called a "columbarium" which has small spaces or "niches" for placement of the urn.

Cremated remains can also be scattered over land or water. Keep in mind that this is a permanent and irrevocable procedure, and that there may not be any "memorial place" for family members to visit. When scattering or any other form of disposition is chosen, a portion of the cremated remains may be retained by the family in a smaller "keepsake urn" if desired.