Cremation Services

What is Cremation?

Cremation is a method of final disposition that some individuals choose for personal, spiritual, or environmental reasons—or because it was the expressed wish of the deceased. Often viewed as a more affordable option than traditional burial, cremation involves placing the body in a combustible container and into a high-temperature chamber where it is reduced to bone fragments. These fragments are then processed into a fine, sand-like texture. On average, the resulting remains weigh between 7 to 8 pounds. It's important to note that cremation doesn't replace the funeral itself, it simply serves as an alternative to burial or other final arrangements.

What Can Be Done With Cremated Remains?

There are many meaningful options for caring for cremated remains. Families may choose to scatter them in a special place, bury them in a cemetery, or keep them in a decorative urn at home. In recent years, new and creative choices have become available, ashes can be incorporated into ocean reef structures, launched into space, released in biodegradable balloons, transformed into glass artwork, or even turned into memorial diamonds. These options allow families to honor their loved one in a way that reflects their personality, values, or final wishes.

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DIRECT CREMATION

Our basic, simple, and straight forward cremation services start at:

$1995

  • Arranging & Administration
  • 24/7 local transfer of Deceased
  • Simple Cardboard Casket*
  • Cremation Fee*
  • Temporary Cardboard Urn

Call Us Anytime: 778-440-8500

Price does not include tax, CPBC Fee, or Death Certificates


Urn(s) and other services available at additional costs


*May be additional cost depending on the weight of the deceased*

Cultural and Religious Views on Cremation

Beliefs about cremation vary widely across different faiths and traditions. Some religions fully embrace it, while others strictly oppose it. For example, Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism, and Buddhism generally require cremation as part of their funeral customs. In contrast, Islam and Orthodox Judaism prohibit cremation entirely. The Catholic Church once forbade cremation but began permitting it in the 1960s, although burial is still considered the preferred choice. Many other Christian denominations have also become more accepting of cremation over time. Within Judaism, perspectives differ, while some branches are open to it, burial remains the most common practice.

Frequent Questions About Cremation

  • What Is Cremation?

    Cremation is the process of using high temperatures to reduce the body to bone fragments, which are then processed into a fine, ash-like substance. It is a method of final disposition and can be part of either a funeral or memorial service.

  • Is a special container required for cremation?

    Yes. In British Columbia, a basic, combustible container—often made of cardboard—is legally required for cremation.



  • Do I need to have the body embalmed before cremation?

    No. Embalming is not a legal requirement for cremation, and families can usually choose whether or not to proceed with it.

  • Can the body be viewed without embalming?

    Yes. Many cremation providers allow for a brief private viewing by close family members before the cremation, even without embalming.

  • Can loved ones be present for the start of the cremation?

    Yes. Some crematories offer the option for family members to witness the beginning of the cremation process, and for some faiths and cultures, this is a meaningful tradition.

  • Can an urn be used during a church service?

    Most Protestant and Catholic churches allow an urn to be present during a funeral or memorial service. Including cremated remains can bring comfort and serve as a central part of the ceremony.



  • What are the options for cremated remains?

    Cremated remains can be buried, kept at home, placed in a columbarium, or scattered in a meaningful location. In British Columbia, scattering does not require a permit in most cases.



  • How do I know the remains I receive are correct?

    Licensed cremation providers follow detailed identification procedures and only cremate one individual at a time, making it highly unlikely that remains would be mixed up.



  • How long does the cremation process take?

    Cremation usually takes between two and three hours, depending on the size of the individual and the equipment used.



  • What do cremated remains look like?

    The remains are typically a light gray or off-white color and have a coarse, sand-like texture. They usually weigh between 7 and 8 pounds for an average adult.



  • Will all of the cremated remains be returned?

    Yes. Nearly all of the remains are returned to the family. Only trace particles that cannot be collected from the chamber or equipment are not included.



  • Is an urn required?

    An urn is not mandatory by law, but it is often chosen for ceremonies, burial, or as a way to keep the remains at home. If one is not selected, the remains are returned in a temporary container.