What can you do with human ashes?

Can family members witness a cremation?
Yes. This request should be discussed at the arrangement conference so a date and time can be scheduled. At Cress, we are the only funeral home to offer a cremation chapel facility. For some funeral homes, the cremation facility is off site or in a detached very “cold” garage-like facility. Our family believes your loved one deserves a respectful and dignified cremation service.

How hot does the cremation chamber get?
The temperature can reach between 1100 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit.

How long does the cremation process take?
The time it takes for the cremation process depends on basically two things. The size of the individual and the casket or container used. A thin person in a cardboard container approximately 3 to 4 hours while a heavy person in a wood casket would be approximately 4.5 to 5 hours.

How can I be sure I’m receiving my loved one’s cremated remains back?
There are certain procedures that all crematories must follow. All necessary paperwork and fees must be completed with local authorities, checklist at the crematory has been completed and a metal disk with an unique ID number accompanies the remains from the time the body is received, throughout the cremation process and is attached to cremated remains bag.

Can you test cremated remains for DNA?
DNA is destroyed during the cremation process. At this time there is no accurate testing of DNA in cremated remains.

What happens to things that don’t burn such as dental gold?
Materials that aren’t consumed by the cremation process are removed and discarded so the bone fragments can be mechanically processed (pulverized) to fit into an urn.

What can I do with the cremated remains?
You can keep the cremated remains in your possession, scatter where allowed, bury in a cemetery or place in a mausoleum. A portion of the cremated remains may be kept as a remembrance usually in a mini urn or keepsake jewelry.

How much do cremated remains weigh?
Usually 4 to 5 pounds not including the urn.

How big of an urn do I need for cremated remains?
The recommended size of an adult urn is 200 cubic inches or about the size of a one gallon paint can.

Can I fly with cremated remains?
Containers that can be viewed through x-ray machines would best be made of wood, plastic or non-lead lined ceramic so the screener can clearly see what’s inside. Under NO circumstances will a screener open the container. Documentation from the funeral home is no longer sufficient to carry an urn or container through security and onto a plane.

Does my religion allow cremation?
Cremation is accepted among almost all religions. If you are uncertain whether cremation is compatible with your religious beliefs, you may contact us for help in finding out.

Can I plan my cremation in advance?
Yes. All the details, decisions and payment can be made when emotions are at rest. The Cremation Authorization can also be signed by you so your family doesn’t have to worry about whether or not they did the right thing.