Cremation Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTIONS ABOUT FUNERAL and CREMATION SERVICES

What is cremation?

To begin with, it is probably easier to describe what cremation isn't. Cremation is not a final disposition of the remains, nor is it a type of funeral service. Rather, it is a process of reducing the human body to bone fragments using high heat and flame. 

How long does the actual cremation take?

It depends on the weight of the individual. For an average size adult, cremation takes from two to three hours at normal operating temperature between 1,500 ºF to 2,000 ºF. 

What happens after the cremation is complete?

All organic bone fragments, which are very brittle, as well as non-consumed metal items are "swept" into the back of the cremation chamber and into a stainless steel cooling pan. All non-consumed items, like metal from clothing, hip joints, and bridge work, are separated from the cremated remains. This separation is accomplished through visual inspection as well as using a strong magnet for smaller and minute metallic objects. Items such as dental gold and silver are non-recoverable and are commingled in with the cremated remains. Remaining bone fragments are then processed in a machine to a consistent size and placed into a temporary or permanent urn, selected by the family. 

What do the cremated remains look like?

Cremated remains resemble coarse sand and are whitish to light grey in color. The remains of an average size adult usually weigh between four to eight pounds of cremated remains. 

In what kind of container are the cremated remains returned?

We return remains in a temporary cardboard box. The family may choose to provide their own container in which the cremated remains will be placed once they are returned to the family. 

Are all the cremated remains returned?

With the exception of minute and microscopic particles, which are impossible to remove from the cremation chamber and processing machine, all of the cremated remains are given back to the family. 

What are prepaid funeral plans?

Quality tributes take time to plan. Pre-planning a memorial service helps your family carry out your vision. Allow Valley Cremation Service to bring your plans to fruition. We have many services to choose from. We can also create a custom service with your guidance. Inspiration is found anywhere. Does the person have a gift for cooking, music, cars, motorcycles, or gab? We are sensitive to your needs, honoring them with professionalism and poise. Please contact us to help you with a prepaid funeral plans.

How do we plan the funeral home service?

Planning a funeral or memorial service is a highly personal process. Your decisions will be shaped by your life experiences, relationship to the deceased, what the deceased wanted, what you desire for yourself after you die, what you can afford, and myriad other factors. This process requires an experienced professional to walk you thru the hurdles to ensure your funeral home service meets your expectations.

Funeral and cremation services are a two part process.

It is important to understand that the funeral and cremation services are actually two important functions:

• What to do with the deceased's physical remains (the form of final disposition)
• How to honor, remember, even celebrate the life and memory of the person who died (the form of the funeral or memorial service)