Cremation Planning Checklist
Before the Cremation Decision is Made
1. LEARN ABOUT OUR DIFFERENT CREMATION SERVICES.
Review the cremation information found on our website.
2. ENGAGE YOUR FAMILY IN A DISCUSSION.
We urge you to bring your family into the conversation to get a better idea about how they feel about cremation and what they would prefer.
3. SPEAK WITH A FUNERAL PROFESSIONAL.
If there are any questions or concerns, please turn to us for the insights you may need at this point.
4. DOCUMENT YOUR CREMATION INTENTIONS IN WRITING.
There are a number of forms we can provide to take this step. Call us at 402-289-2222 to learn more.
5. ARRANGE FOR THE TRANSPORTATION OF YOUR LOVED ONE'S PHYSICAL REMAINS.
We can escort them to our facility or directly to the crematory.
After Deciding on a Cremation Service
6. CONSIDER WHAT KIND OF CEREMONY YOU WOULD LIKE TO HAVE.
You can plan for a traditional funeral followed by the cremation or delay the ceremony until you have the time to plan a cremation memorial service, celebration-of-life, or scattering ceremony.
7. ASK FOR ASSISTANCE FROM YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS.
When making plans for a meaningful event, encourage everyone to get involved. Ask them to gather family photos, write down the stories they'd like to share, and talk to them about the best location for the event. If you would like a eulogy, this is the time to ask someone special to take on that task.
8. WHO WILL ORCHESTRATE OR CONDUCT THE MEMORIAL SERVICE?
If your loved one was religious, you may opt to have their pastor or church minister perform these tasks. However, many families today hire a non-denominational celebrant to oversee the memorial service.
10.WHO WISHES TO SPEAK AT THE EVENT?
If your loved one was religious, you may opt to have their pastor or church minister perform these tasks. However, many families today hire a non-denominational celebrant to oversee the memorial service.
11. SELECT THE MUSIC, PRAYERS, OR OTHER READINGS.
You don't have to have any of these things but you should decide exactly what you and your guests will do at this event. There are endless possibilities.
12. WHAT FOOD OR BEVERAGES SHOULD BE SERVED?
What you serve may depend on the theme of your memorial service, or may be based on your loved one's favorite dishes. It's entirely up to you; we've even seen "pot luck" memorial services where guests actually sign up to bring select foods and beverages.
13. CONTACT GUESTS WELL AHEAD OF TIME.
This is especially important if they will need to travel or request time off from work.
14. DECIDE WHAT WILL BE DONE WITH THE CREMATED REMAINS.
Commonly the urn is a visual focal point of a celebration-of-life. Will you then take it home? Will the scattering of ashes be a part of the event? You may want to purchase keepsake urns for family members.
Call on Us
We've had years of experience helping other families make cremation service arrangements. Never hesitate to pick up the phone to call us. We would be privileged to serve you and your family. Simply call 402-289-2222 to speak with one of our funeral professionals about our cremation packages.