E.J. Mandziuk & Son provides a wide range of cremation choices and alternative services. In some areas of the country, cremation has become a popular choice for final disposition. There are some who are considering cremation as an option to traditional burial. For your convenience, we have listed some of the more common questions and answers about cremation.

Is a casket required?

No. For sanitary reasons, ease of placement and dignity, many crematoriums require that the deceased be cremated in a combustible, leak proof, rigid, covered container made of wood or cardboard to allow for the dignified handling of human remains. The type of casket or container selected is a personal decision.

Can a casket be rented instated of purchased when choosing cremation?

Many funeral homes offer a hardwood ceremonial casket for viewing of funeral services prior to cremation. The ceremonial (or rental) casket is specifically designed to provide a very aesthetically pleasing, affordable and environmentally prudent alternative to purchasing a casket for a cremation service.

How long does it take to cremate a body?

Cremating at the optimum temperature (1400-1800 Degrees), the average weighted remains takes 2 to 2 1/2 hours. Several more hours may be required before the cremated remains are available to the family.

What happens during the cremation process?

The casket or container is placed in the cremation chamber, where the temperature is raised to approximately
1400 degrees to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. After approximately 2 to 2 ½ hours, all organic matter is consumed by heat or evaporation. The remaining bone fragments are known as cremated remains. The cremated remains are the carefully removed from the cremation chamber. Any metal is removed with magnet and later disposed of in an approved manner. The cremated remains are then processed into fine particles and are placed in the container provided by the crematorium or placed in an urn purchased by the family. The entire process takes approximately three hours. Throughout the cremation process, a carefully controlled labeling system ensures correct identification.

Are cremations done individually?

Yes. Laws required that only one casket or container be cremated at a time.

Can I watch the cremation?

Arrangements can usually be made through the Cremation Authorization Form for relatives or representatives of the deceased to witness the cremation.

When after death can a cremation take place?

Because cremation is an irreversible process and because the process itself will eliminate any ability to determine exact cause of death, many state required that each cremation be authorized by the coroner or medical examiner. Some states have specific minimum time limits that must elapse before cremation may take place. Your local funeral director can advise you of applicable regulations, if any.

Do all religions permit cremation?
Some religions prefer cremation while others do not recommend the practice. If you should have any questions, it would be wise to speak with a member of your clergy or contact your local funeral director.

Is any other preparation required prior to cremation?

It is essential that pacemakers and other medical devices be removed prior to cremation. They may explode when subject to high temperature, which can be hazardous to crematorium staff and equipment. In addition, any special mementos, such as jewelry, will be destroyed during the cremation process. Anything you wish to keep should be removed by the funeral director before the casket or container is transferred to the crematorium.

Is embalming necessary for cremation?

No. It is the family's choice, however, it may depend on such factors as whether there will be a public viewing of the body with an open casket, to enhance the appearance of the body for a private family viewing, or if the body is going to be transported because of the length of time prior to the cremation.

Why is refrigeration of the remains necessary?

Due to the irreversible nature of cremation, most states require a waiting period before the actual process may begin. Refrigeration is the only alternative, other than embalming, that will delay tissue decomposition, thus protecting the family & friends, funeral director, crematory operator, and public from health hazards.

Is it true that the bones are crushed after cremation?

A complete cremation is a two-step process. First, the deceased is exposed to several hours of intense heat and flame; second, the remains-which are mostly ash except for certain bone fragments are gathered and run through a processor creating a uniform powder-like texture.

Can I bring my own urn?

Yes. It would be advisable that you discuss the situation with your cremation provider prior to cremation because the size of the urn will be of great importance if you plan to place your loved one's entire cremated body in the container.

Do all funeral homes have a crematory

No, only a small percentage of funeral homes and mortuaries have their own crematories.

Is cremation a substitution for a funeral?

No, cremation is simply a method of preparing a body for final disposition.

Can a service be held before or after the cremation?

It is completely a matter of family preference. A traditional service can be held first and then a cremation. One advantage of cremation is that it provides flexibility. For example, a family may choose to have a funeral service before the cremation, a memorial service at the time of cremation, or a committal service at the final disposition. Funeral or memorial services can be held in a place of worship, funeral home, or in a crematorium chapel.

What can be done with the cremated remains?

There are numerous options with cremation. The cremains can be buried in a cemetery plot, and, if the cemetery allows it, multiple cremains may be buried within one plot. The cremains may also be retained by a family member or be scattered on private property or a place of significance to the deceased. Please be sure to check local ordinances before any scattering of cremated remains.

What is a memorialization for a cremation?

You might choose earth burial of an urn, usually a bronze memorial or monument. Also available at many cemeteries are cremation niches in columbariums. They offer a mausoleum setting with above ground placement of the remains. Many cemeteries also offer scattering gardens which offer the peacefulness of a serene garden where family and friends can come and reflect. Having a place to visit is important to a family because it provides a focal point for memorializing the deceased. Providing a permanent resting place for the deceased is a dignified treatment for a loved one's remains, fulfilling the natural human desire for memorialization. This also helps bring closure and lets the healing process begin.