Cremation Options FAQs

Helping Families Explore Our Cremation Options in Ogden, UT

Ask the Experts at Leavitt’s Mortuary & Aultorest Memorial Park

A family-owned and -operated funeral home since 1929, Leavitt’s Mortuary & Aultorest Memorial Park is dedicated to ensuring your loved one’s final wishes are met. For many, cremation is a desirable alternative to a full-casket burial in a cemetery. Our experienced funeral directors offer many cremation options in Ogden, UT to accommodate your family’s needs. We understand many families are unfamiliar with the cremation process. As such, you’ll find the answers to our most frequently asked questions about cremation listed below. If you have additional questions or concerns, please reach out to us via phone or email. We would be happy to walk you through the cremation process and your options.

What Is Cremation? How Long Must We Wait After a Death?

Cremation is the heat-based process of changing a deceased body into ashes, and it typically occurs within 48-72 hours after death. However, this isn’t always feasible. As long as the deceased’s body is kept in a secure, refrigerated environment, cremation can be postponed. Cremation is irreversible, so we must obtain the necessary permission from the next-of-kin and medical examiner before proceeding.

If We Choose Cremation, Does the Body Have to Be Embalmed?

Not necessarily. Some families may wish to hold a visitation with an open casket prior to cremation. In this scenario, we would recommend embalming the body, so the deceased looks their best during the viewing. However, if you decide direct cremation is best, the body may not need to be embalmed first. Embalming isn’t required by law, and we must have your family’s express consent to offer this service.

How Long Does Cremation Take? What Kind of Fuel Is Used?

Most modern cremators use either natural gas or diesel oil. The amount of time it takes will vary according to the type of cremator used and your loved one’s body type. The average cremation time is about two-and-a-half hours. However, a cool-down period is required before we’re able to present you with your loved one’s ashes.

Are People Dressed When They’re Cremated?

We get this question a lot. While some may prefer to go out the same way they were born into this world, most are dressed in the clothing selected by their family members when we cremate them.

Can I Participate in the Cremation?

Yes and no. Please speak with our funeral directors if you’re interested in participating in your loved one’s cremation. We may be able to work out something to accommodate your wishes.

What Should I Do with My Loved One’s Cremated Ashes?

There’s no right or wrong answer as to what should be done with your loved one’s cremated ashes. Many people choose to keep them in an urn at home for safekeeping, while others decide to scatter them on land or at sea according to their loved one’s wishes. Yet others choose to bury them in a cemetery or have them turned into one-of-a-kind keepsakes, such as jewelry or art. Whatever you decide, we’re here to provide professional guidance for the best outcome.

Can I Purchase an Urn Elsewhere, or Must I Buy One from You?

You may purchase an urn or casket from another party, although many find it convenient to purchase these items directly from our funeral home to guarantee their availability and on-time delivery. We have working relationships with many vendors to offer you affordable pricing to suit any budget.

Can We Put Special Items in a Loved One’s Cremation Casket?

Absolutely! Whether you’d like to include personal notes or treasured keepsakes in your loved one’s cremation casket, be sure to talk to our funeral directors about the possibility. We always do our best to accommodate any special requests we receive.

Does This Mean We Don’t Need to Plan a Memorial Service?

Cremation often includes a funeral or memorial service, visitation, and even graveside services. However your family chooses to grieve and celebrate a loved one’s life is sacred. One of the biggest benefits of cremation is you’re not limited to a specific timeframe for such services. Once the deceased has been cremated, you can take all the time you need to make plans for the tribute your loved one deserves.

What’s the Difference Between a Columbarium and a Mausoleum?

Many people decide to put their loved one’s cremated ashes in a columbarium or mausoleum at their local cemetery. While similar in concept, the primary difference between the two is a columbarium features enough space for full-size caskets, while a mausoleum only has space for cremation urns. Leavitt’s Mortuary & Aultorest Memorial Park has an on-site cemetery with a mausoleum and cremation garden to accommodate your loved one’s final wishes.

What Are Average Cremation Costs? What Are Cash Advance Items?

Similar to burial services, there are many variables that determine the cost of cremation. The type of cremation casket or urn you select and whether you choose to have the body embalmed will affect your final cost, as will transportation and storage costs prior to cremation. Typically, there is a charge for the use of our crematory facilities, not to mention any cash advance items you may select. Cash advance items may include anything from transportation to clergy and musician fees, flowers, obituary notices, and obtaining the death certificate. Payment will be required when you sign the service contract.

Can You Tell Us Which Type of Service Is Right for Us?

Determining whether burial or cremation is right is a very personal decision. While we cannot tell you which is best for your loved one, we may be able to make recommendations based on your budget and situation. We would be happy to explain your cremation options in Ogden, UT when you contact us!