Cremation
Cremation rates continue to rise across the country (with more than 70% of Minnesotans choosing cremation last year), driven by environmental concerns and cost considerations. If the deceased did not indicate their wishes for final disposition, cremation requires a majority next-of-kin vote, and you can choose between two options: cremation by fire or water.
Cremation by Fire
Cremation by fire uses flame and heat to reduce the human remains to bone fragments, or cremated remains (ash). Cremation by fire is currently the most common type of cremation and is more affordable than cremation by water.
Cremation by Water
Alkaline Hydrolysis, also called aquamation, is a more environmentally conscious choice as there is no direct emission of greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere. Fossil fuels are not used in this process, resulting in more than 90% energy savings compared to flame cremation and a significant reduction in carbon imprint.
In addition to being the eco-friendly alternative, cremation by water yields higher volume in ash remains.
Cremation Services and Pricing
Full-Service Cremation
Our full-service cremation packages, which include basic services of a funeral director and staff, coordination and execution of SendOff event, and onsite support during the life celebration, start at $7,500. Also included:
Transfer of deceased to funeral home, transportation to crematory
Crematory fees
Coordination with venue, catering company, etc., as well as streamlined invoicing
Service vehicle for flower and decor delivery
SendOff event set-up, direction of visitors, and event-day supervision
Placement of urn, use of equipment, display of flower arrangements and decor
Pricing above does not include the cost of urn or third-party charges pertaining to event venue, catering, etc.
Direct cremation (no visitation, no services)
Direct cremation is the simplest and least costly cremation option. It includes transportation from place of death to the crematory, crematory fees, and delivery of ashes to a local address. Direct cremation through SendOff, with container (urn) provided by the family is $3,085.
For more information about pricing, view our General Price List or contact SendOff for a detailed estimate.
What To Do with Cremated Remains
Families can be creative in choosing what to do with cremated remains. Some families may split the remains among themselves using multiple urns, others may choose to scatter their loved one’s ashes over water or bury them in a cemetery or other meaningful place, such as Better Place Forests.
You can also choose to solidify your loved one’s ashes in stones, jewelry, ceramics, a vinyl record, blown glass, and more.
If you’re unsure of what you want to do with cremated remains, we’ll help you explore creative ideas.