Cremation Options

Explore the many cremation service formats and choices available to your family. From direct cremation to cremation with traditional services, find the option that fits your needs and honors your loved one.

Cremation Gives You Flexibility

One of the greatest advantages of cremation is the flexibility it provides. You're not limited to a single approach—instead, you can choose the service format that best suits your family's needs, budget, and preferences. Whether you want a traditional funeral before cremation, a memorial service afterward, or direct cremation with no service, the choice is entirely yours.

At Proko Funeral Home, we offer a range of cremation options so you can honor your loved one in a way that feels right for your family. Let us help you explore your choices and find the perfect option.

You're in Control

Cremation provides unprecedented flexibility in how you plan services, when you hold them, where you gather, and what you do with cremated remains. This flexibility allows you to create a service that perfectly reflects your loved one's life and your family's values.

Cremation Service Format Options

Choose the service format that best suits your family's needs. Each option provides meaningful ways to honor your loved one while maintaining the flexibility cremation offers.

Direct Cremation

The most affordable and flexible option. The body is cremated without a service or viewing beforehand.

  • Most cost-effective option
  • Cremated remains returned in urn
  • Hold memorial service anytime, anywhere
  • Maximum flexibility on timing
  • No viewing or service required

Best for: Families seeking affordability and flexibility, those who prefer private remembrance, or those planning a later memorial gathering.

Cremation with Viewing

The body is placed in a casket for viewing by family and friends before cremation occurs.

  • Allows traditional viewing experience
  • Casket present (usually closed) at service
  • Combines viewing with cremation benefits
  • Flexible ceremony format
  • Can proceed with cremation or burial

Best for: Families wanting a viewing experience with cremation's flexibility and affordability.

Cremation with Funeral Service

A traditional funeral service is held with the casket present (usually closed), followed by cremation at the crematory.

  • Full funeral service with ceremony
  • Family and friends gather together
  • Religious or secular service options
  • Eulogies, music, and readings
  • Followed by cremation

Best for: Families wanting traditional funeral elements with cremation benefits.

Cremation with Memorial Service

Body is cremated first, then a memorial service is held without the body present. Maximum flexibility in timing.

  • No time pressure on service timing
  • Hold service days or weeks later
  • Any location—funeral home, church, home
  • Invite extended family and friends
  • Personalized celebration format

Best for: Families needing time to arrange schedules, those with distant family, or those planning large gatherings.

Graveside Committal Service

A brief ceremony at the cemetery where cremated remains are buried or entombed. Combines cremation with cemetery permanence.

  • Burial of cremated remains
  • Marker or headstone option
  • Focused cemetery ceremony
  • Permanent grave site
  • Family visitation location

Best for: Families wanting cemetery permanence with cremation's affordability.

Celebration of Life Service

An informal gathering focused on celebrating your loved one's life with stories, music, and memories. Can include cremated remains or be held separately.

  • Informal, personalized format
  • Share memories and stories
  • Food and beverages included
  • Flexible location and timing
  • Photos, music, slideshows

Best for: Families wanting casual, personalized celebration emphasizing life and memories.

Options for Cremated Remains

After cremation is complete, you have complete control over the cremated remains. There are many meaningful ways to honor your loved one—choose what feels right for your family.

Option Description Permanence Cost
Cemetery Burial Urn buried in cemetery plot with headstone or marker Permanent location for visits $500–$3,000+
Columbarium Niche Urn placed in above-ground wall or structure at cemetery Permanent, easily accessible $300–$2,000
Scattering Ashes scattered at ocean, mountains, garden, or meaningful location Return to nature $100–$500
Home Display Decorative urn displayed at home or private space Personal memorial Urn cost only
Division Among Family Ashes divided into keepsake urns for family members Multiple locations $100–$500 per urn
Memorial Jewelry Portion in pendant, bracelet, or keepsake item Portable memorial $100–$500
Memorial Garden Scattered in designated garden with plaque Beautiful, permanent location $200–$1,000

Urn Selection

Choose an urn that reflects your loved one's personality and your family's preferences:

  • Traditional Urns — Classic ceramic, wood, or metal styles in various finishes
  • Decorative Urns — Artistic designs featuring nature, religious symbols, or personal interests
  • Eco-Friendly Urns — Biodegradable options made from natural materials for scattering
  • Personalized Urns — Custom urns with names, dates, photos, or meaningful inscriptions
  • Keepsake Urns — Small urns that allow ashes to be divided among multiple family members
  • Memorial Jewelry — Pendants, bracelets, or other jewelry containing cremated remains

Comparing Your Cremation Options

Different cremation options offer different benefits. Consider your family's priorities, budget, and traditions when choosing.

When Direct Cremation Is Right

  • Limited budget
  • Need maximum flexibility
  • Prefer private remembrance
  • Can plan memorial later
  • Want simplicity

When Cremation with Service Is Right

  • Want family gathering
  • Need ceremony and ritual
  • Value traditional elements
  • Can invest in service
  • Want professional arrangement

Cost Comparison by Service Format

  • Direct Cremation: $1,000–$2,500 (most affordable)
  • Cremation with Viewing: $1,500–$3,500
  • Cremation with Funeral Service: $2,000–$5,000
  • Cremation with Memorial Service: $1,500–$4,000
  • Graveside Committal with Burial: Add cemetery and burial costs
  • Celebration of Life: $1,000–$3,000 (varies by location)

For detailed pricing on specific options, view our general price list or contact us for a personalized quote.

Pre-Planning Your Cremation Choices

Pre-planning allows you to explore all available options, make thoughtful decisions, and document your preferences for your family.

Pre-Planning Benefits

  • Explore all cremation options at your own pace
  • Select your preferred service format
  • Choose your urn in advance
  • Decide what to do with cremated remains
  • Lock in today's prices
  • Document your wishes in writing
  • Reduce burden on your family
  • Provide peace of mind

Questions to Consider During Pre-Planning

  • Do you prefer direct cremation or a service beforehand?
  • What type of service format appeals to you?
  • What kind of urn would you choose?
  • What would you like done with your cremated remains?
  • Do you have specific religious or cultural requirements?
  • Where should you be scattered or buried (if applicable)?
  • Who should make decisions if you're unable to?
  • Do you want to pre-fund your cremation?

Contact Proko Funeral Home to schedule a pre-planning consultation. Our funeral directors will help you explore all options and create a plan that reflects your values and preferences.

Related Cremation and Funeral Services

For comprehensive information about cremation and funeral services, explore these resources:

Help Choosing the Right Cremation Option

With so many meaningful options available, choosing the right cremation service can feel overwhelming. Our experienced funeral directors are here to help you explore your options, answer your questions, and create a service that honors your loved one and meets your family's needs.