Cremation

Cremation is a method of final disposition of a dead body through burning. Cremation may serve as a funeral or post-funeral rite and as an alternative to burial. Many spread the loved ones ashes after in places where the deceased cherished.  There are three different types of cremation: direct-the body is cremated right after death and there is no memorial or service afterward. This is the least expensive option; traditionally-there is a funeral service with the body in the casket and then after the service the body is cremated. This is a more expensive option; memorial- the body is cremated right after death and then a service comes after without a viewing of the body. People either have an empty casket or the urn present at the service. This is a middle expense option. 

Burial

Burial is the disposal method of placing the dead body into the ground, usually in a casket with the person's meaningful objects. Type of burials are in-ground, above ground, and natural; types of services vary by funeral home and cemetery. Similar to cremation there is traditional burial which can include a dressing, viewing, funeral or graveside service. Compared to a direct which is solely just the placing of the body into the cemetery. Cost varies based on service and cemetery but averagely cost between $2,000 and $5,000

Embalming

Normally if a body is embalmed it’s soon after the death, and can take place within 24-48 hours. Embalming is typically done by the funeral home to preserve the body. Bodies can be embalmed for burial, mainly for open caskets and above ground, or if they are needed to be transported via airplane. If the body can’t be refrigerated or the family wishes that the body stays preserved then embalming might be a good option. It can cost around $500-$700. 

Donation

Any type of donation often needs to be planned before death since they have to be immediate. If live organs are being donated it’s typically determined at the time of death at the hospital. The body can also be donated to teaching hospitals or medical schools, but the body won’t be returned back for up to 3 years. There is typically no cost to donate except for transportation fees. 

Autopsy

An autopsy is a surgical procedure that consists of a thorough examination of a corpse by dissection to determine the cause, mode, and manner of death. The coroner will tell you if one needs to be performed and why at the scene of the death. Since we don’t have a local medical examiner the body is sent down to Denver for the examination. It can be more efficient and cost effective if the body stays in denver for cremation or embalming