Funeral and cremation services in Robbinsville, NJ, do what they can to help late loved ones get a befitting ending. However, the winter poses unique challenges that make certain practices more complex during this period.
The choices surrounding the final disposition, if not already stipulated by the deceased, lie in the hands of their family. With burial and cremation as the most popular means of treating the deceased’s body, you might wonder which is better during winter.
Below, we discuss conditions that might make cremation the more practical choice over traditional burial in winter.
Those who have to travel down for the ceremony may be deterred by inclement weather, as is often the case in winter.
You can put loved ones through the danger of traveling in bad weather or postpone the funeral service until conditions ease up. If you would rather not have it either way, there is the third option of cremating the deceased. You can then hold a proper memorial service when it’s safe.
The details of the cremation service, such as whether you want a direct cremation or a witnessed one, can be hashed out. You may hold a mini gathering with only family and friends nearby to view the body and commiserate with one another before the cremation takes place.
Considering the finality of burial, most people like to have their friends and family present when it takes place. Those who love the deceased may find some closure in bidding them farewell firsthand.
Cremation allows for this healing experience without compromising the safety of mourners or the dignity of the body. The deceased’s body is cared for, and their remains would still be available to hold on to if need be.
This means that if it matters to you that certain people bear witness to the final rites of your loved one, cremation is a practical choice. This is especially important if your culture or religion dictates that some or all of the funeral proceedings be held outdoors.
There is also the issue of frozen ground. While we now have technology that makes digging a grave through the snow possible, the process is more complex compared to warmer times.
Cemeteries, for instance, use technology that helps to thaw or break through the icy ground. These methods vary but are usually more costly the more effective they are. For an average person, that adds on to the already substantial cost of holding a funeral.
But with cremation, the options for final disposition are not limited to digging the frozen ground. As mentioned above, you can hold off on disposing of the ashes entirely. Or, you can explore alternative ways to do so than burying the remains, such as scattering and placement in a columbarium.
Our Robbinsville, NJ, cremation service puts the wishes and comfort of the families we serve at the forefront of everything we do. Whatever that means for you, visit or call us today, and we will work with you to bring your vision to life the best we can.