FAQs
We’ve provided a list of answers to questions we frequently receive regarding our services and other activities related to funerals. If you don't see the answer to your question here, feel free to contact us.
We'd be happy to give you more information and clarify any of your concerns.
What do I do when a death occurs while out of town or away from home?
What do I do when a death occurs while out of town or away from home?
It’s important that you contact the local medical authorities first (as well as the police, if appropriate), and then make sure to give us a call as soon as possible. We will work with you to make the necessary arrangements to get you and your loved one back home as quickly and easily as possible. Calling us will also help you to avoid duplication of efforts and fees.
What do funeral directors do?
What do funeral directors do?
A funeral director is a licensed professional who specializes in all aspects of funerals and related services. They provide support to the family, guide the arrangement of visitations and funeral ceremonies, prepare the deceased according to the family’s wishes, and ensure that everything goes according to plan. They also arrange for the removal and transportation of the deceased throughout the process and assist families with any legal or insurance-related paperwork they might need to file. They’re experienced at recognizing when an individual is having an extremely difficult time coping with a loss and can provide extra support and recommendations for professional help if needed.
Can I personalize my service?
Can I personalize my service?
Absolutely! Our staff has years of experience getting to know families and incorporating their loved one’s hobbies, activities, interests, and unique requests into meaningful and memorable services. Don’t hesitate to make a request because you think it might be too “out there” — we’re honored to work with you to create a service that truly reflects and celebrates your loved one’s individual life journey.
Do we need to buy a casket?
Do we need to buy a casket?
Ontario’s law requires that the deceased be placed into a rigid combustible container. Many options of caskets and containers are available.
Do we need to have a funeral if we choose cremation?
Do we need to have a funeral if we choose cremation?
The same options that apply to earth burial are available with cremation. Some of these choices include: casket type, location of the service and visitation, music selection, open casket and the display of personal mementos. Some families elect to have a complete service at the funeral home or place of worship. Others prefer to have a procession to the crematorium, similar to that often done to the cemetery, for an earth burial.
Is embalming required?
Is embalming required?
Embalming is not mandatory. However, some circumstances may require it. If you prefer an open casket with a visitation prior to the service, embalming is highly recommended.
Can I still have viewing and funeral services with cremation?
Can I still have viewing and funeral services with cremation?
Yes. In fact, we encourage you to do so. Choosing cremation only indicates how you’d like to care for your loved one after the service and doesn’t exclude you from celebrating and honoring their life in any way. Whether you’d like to arrange a funeral service before cremation, or wait and hold the service after the cremation, we’re happy to help you design a meaningful service to accompany the cremation.
Why have a viewing?
Why have a viewing?
A viewing — also known as a visitation, wake or calling hours — can involve an open or closed casket and is seen as a vital part of the grieving process. Having their loved one present often helps family and friends to accept the reality of their loss, especially for those who may not have seen him or her in a while. The opportunity to come to terms with the death and say a final farewell is an important step on the road to healing.
Can we have a viewing if my loved one has donated organs or had an autopsy?
Can we have a viewing if my loved one has donated organs or had an autopsy?
Yes. Autopsies and organ donation do not affect your ability to have an open-casket viewing.
Should I bring my children to the funeral service?
Should I bring my children to the funeral service?
Use your judgment to determine whether your child is old enough to comprehend death. Decide if attending the funeral will be meaningful to them. It’s important for children to express their grief. If you bring young children, explain beforehand what they will see and experience. Make sure children know the importance of being on their best behaviour. If your child becomes cranky or noisy, remove them promptly to avoid disturbing attendees.
What is the purpose of embalming?
What is the purpose of embalming?
In many cases, if you choose to have a viewing, embalming may be required. Embalming is a process used to sanitize and temporarily preserve the body of a person who has passed away. It also can enhance the appearance of a person who has suffered damage from an accident or illness. By preserving the body through embalming, we can give you and your family time to make personalized and meaningful arrangements.
How long does the cremation process take?
How long does the cremation process take?
This will vary depending on the individual and the casket or container. Usually the process of cremation takes between three to five hours.
How can I be sure that the remains I receive are those of my loved one?
How can I be sure that the remains I receive are those of my loved one?
Cremation of multiple people at the same time is illegal in Canada and many other countries. The cremation chamber is not designed to hold more than one person at a time. In addition, cremation is a regulated process with strict procedures.
All necessary paperwork and fees must be completed with local authorities. A checklist is completed at the crematory and a metal disk with a unique ID number accompanies your loved one. That metal disk stays with your loved one from the time we receive that person into our care and throughout the cremation process.
After cremation occurs, we attach the metal disk to the bag containing the ashes of your loved one. Please rest assured you are receiving your loved one’s ashes.
Where can I scatter my loved one's cremated remains? Are there any restrictions?
Where can I scatter my loved one's cremated remains? Are there any restrictions?
In general, the government does not regulate the scattering of ashes. Most public parks, including national parks, ask that you submit a formal request and may have restrictions on where you can scatter. If you wish to scatter on private land, consult the landowner first. In most cases, as long as you do your due diligence about checking for rules beforehand and are considerate, it’s more of a “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy.
What is a columbarium?
What is a columbarium?
A columbarium is a place for the interment of urns containing cremated remains. They’re often located in mausoleums, chapels or memorial gardens. A columbarium contains numerous small compartments or niches, which are designed to hold urns.
What is probate?
What is probate?
Probate is a legal process where your named executor goes before a court and does several things:
• Identifies and catalogues all property owned by the deceased
• Appraises the property and pays all debts and taxes
• Proves that the Will is valid and legal
• Distributes the property to the heirs as the Will instructs
Typically, probate involves paperwork and court appearances by lawyers. The lawyers and court fees are paid from estate property, which would otherwise go to the people who inherit the deceased person’s property.
After your death, the person you named in your Will as executor ( or if you die without a Will, the person appointed by a judge) files papers in the local probate court. The executor proves the validity of your Will and presents the court with lists of your property, your debts and who is to inherit assets and/or property. Then, relatives and creditors are officially notified of your death.