If you are the oldest sibling when your parent dies, one of the tasks that may fall to you is the funeral planning. This includes the cremation service if that was a request. Most of the information you need will probably already be planned or written down, including the specific cremation process, urn or other related information. However, this information may not include information regarding separating the cremation remains between family.
Here are key points you need to know about the separation of the cremains.
Separation Options
One of the most important decisions to consider is the vessel options. The most common choice is to place the remains in various urns and send them to the family members. You also have other options to consider that are unique and will still distribute the ashes in an easy-to-maintain manner, however.
Jewellery
One of the leading options for separated cremation remains is jewellery. Several types of cremation jewellery exist, but a popular design is to have the ashes pressed into diamonds. This process creates diamonds from the cremation ashes and allows you to place the specified number of diamonds into rings, necklaces and earrings. You can specify the number of diamonds based on the family members who receive the remains.
Other vessel options for the cremation remains include urns, scatter tubes and candles.
Urns
As mentioned, urns are a popular option. Urns are available in a variety of designs, colours and materials, such as stone, so each family member can remember your loved one in a way that they love.
Scatter Tubes
Scatter tubes are available for family members who want to scatter their loved one’s ashes. Like urns, scatter tubes are often available in a variety of colours and designs.
While scatter tubes’ main purpose is to hold the ashes while in transport to the scattering spot, people can keep scatter tubes afterwards as a memento or even leave them at the scattering spot to biodegrade. If you scatter the ashes at sea, the scatter tube could be dropped into the ocean with the ashes inside and slowly release the ashes as the tube biodegrades.
Candles
Finally, candles are available to hold your loved one’s ashes. The candle holder often has a small compartment for the ashes so that whenever you light a candle, you will remember and honour your loved one’s memory.
If you aren’t sure which option may be best based on the number of family members, discuss options with your funeral director. They may have other resources that are equally appealing for you and the family members receiving the ashes.
Funeral Director Consultation
Once you have discussed the vessel options, you can speak to your funeral director. When you schedule an appointment, you will want to bring any necessary paperwork. This will show the director that you do have everything in place for the cremation and separation of the ashes to begin.
You will also want to bring the addresses of the family members. This will be for the shipping of the cremation urn, jewellery or vessel you have chosen. You may also find that your funeral director handles more steps in the process and can discuss alterations to your plan that will help reduce costs.
The pre-planning for the cremation will include the type of cremation service you want. It will also include any options that pertain to the service including memorial options and notification in local media publications.
If you plan to separate cremation remains between siblings or other family members, contact Cremations Only. We will help guide you through the key points of the service and process. We will also help with any questions regarding shipping and related inquiries.