Things to Consider
Remember that a funeral is a celebration of a life lived. It is an important opportunity for family and friends to pay tribute to someone they love, to gather and share memories and support one another. Funerals today are more personal than ever, reflecting the individual lifestyle, feelings and passions of the loved one. They bring closure, yet help transform a life lived into loving memories for those who are left behind.
The following is a list of some of the things to consider.
Burial or Cremation
Burial or cremation can be chosen for either a traditional funeral service with visitation
or for direct disposition.
People wanting cremation may still want to have visiting and/or a funeral service, with or without a casket present.
Cemetery name and plot number to be buried in or decision regarding final disposition of cremated remains.
Visitation Gathering (with casket present)
Photos and special memorabilia to display
Special clothing or jewelry
Open or closed casket
Visitation Gathering (without casket present)
Photos and special memorabilia to display
Personal belongings displayed on table at front of chapel.
Funeral/Memorial Service
Funeral service held at funeral home, church or other location.
Clergy person or person officiating.
Other people to speak.
Special readings, favourite music selections
Musicians (organist, piper, soloist, etc)
Pallbearers – either active or honourary
Reception following the Service
Either at Funeral Home, Church or other location.
Catering for the lunch
Fraternal Organizations
(Lodges, Legion, Clubs)
How would they be involved?
Embalming?
Embalming is not required by law in Ontario.
The preparation of the deceased for viewing is beneficial in that it provides
a more pleasant appearance for loved ones and friends.
Newspaper Notices
Names of newspapers that you wish the obituary to be in.
Special accomplishments you would want mentioned.
Family members' names to be included.
Flowers
Specific flower or colour preferences
Memorial Donations
Preferred charities – specific or can be charity of one’s choice.
Casket Selection
Wood or metal
Style and colour
For cremation, any casket may be used or a simple cremation container.
Burial Vault or Cremation Urn
Different types of burial vaults are available when burial in a cemetery is chosen.
Many types of urns are available as well as keepsake urns (jewelry, clocks, carvings) for those wanting to keep a small amount of their loved one’s cremated remains.
Monument at Cemetery
If burial is chosen, a monument will need to be selected from
a monument retailer. Many shapes and colours are available.
If a monument is already in place the inscription will need
to be added.