Can I Have a Cremation and a Visitation?

One of the biggest questions that we get here at Fees & Sons Funeral Home and Crematorium is whether it is possible to have a visitation or wake prior to the cremation. Over the years having a visitation and a cremation as become a more popular choice for families.

What is a Wake or Visitation?

The reason why many people believe that they are unable to have a visitation or wake with a cremation is because they do not understand that the remains of the body can still be present at a wake. In the case of either a wake or visitation, it typically occurs a day or two before the funeral service and it focuses on the importance of being physically close to the body of your loved one. In the instance of a wake, the casket is present for a visitation although it is more about paying respects to the family of the deceased and gathering together to share stories and memories of your loved one.

The Most Common Misconception

One of the biggest misconceptions comes from the embalming process and the legalities set in place for cremation afterwards. Many people believe that when you embalm a body for a visitation or a wake you are not able to cremate the body afterwards because of the chemicals. That is not true. During the embalming process it is meant to preserve the body by removing the blood and organ and replacing it with the embalming fluid so that it is possible to nhave an open casket prior to cremation during the viewing. Another possibility for the visitation is after the cremation has happened. Once the cremation has happened, the family members would have the ashes and urn on display, similarly if there was a casket present.

What about the Casket?

Another important question that we get about the options of visitation is what happensto the casket after the visitation or wake. In some cases, families choose to purchase the casket their loved one was in to be cremated along with the body. This option though tends to be costly and expensive. Another popular option that we offer at our funeral home is the possibility to rent a casket.

Then What?

Many people are wondering what happens to the body after a visitation? After the visitation or wake happens, the body is taken to the crematory to be cremated for the funeral service. It is a short process that can take place when ever you would like and it is your choice when you are planning the perfect services for your loved one.
 
For more information on visitations, wakes, and cremation, please contact us at Fees & Sons Funeral Home and Crematorium.