FAQ’s
Who is this plan good for?
Anyone who desires affordable immediate cremation.
What is immediate cremation?
Arranging cremation as soon as possible following death, with no embalming is considered immediate or direct cremation. If able, family members say their good-byes at the place of death – often the hospital, nursing home, or residence. If this is not possible, you can arrange to view the body at our funeral home prior to cremation. A memorial or graveside service is often scheduled following the cremation.
What exactly does the Simply Cremation plan cover?
The plan covers direct cremation, which include the transfer of remains from the place of death, obtaining the neccesary permits and filing the death certificate and the cremation process. The ashes, or cremains as they are referred to, are returned to the family in a rigid plastic box. Many cemeteries will bury this container directly.
Will you honor prices offered for direct cremation by other funeral homes and crematories?
Yes. We will meet any lower direct cremation price offered by a legitimate, area cremation provider.
Do you have your own on-site crematory?
Yes we do. It is operated by licensed Minnesota morticians from our staff. Owning and operating our own crematory allows us to expedite the process so that you may oftentimes receive your cremains within one day’s time.
Is there a membership fee?
No.
When is payment due for at-need cremation?
To be able to offer this low cremation price we ask that payment be made in full at the time of arrangements. We accept Visa, Mastercard and Discover.
Can I pre-pay for the cremation?
Yes. Minnesota law allows you to set aside money in an irrevocable funeral trust, funded by either funeral insurance or a bank CD (certificate of deposit). Both are easily accomplished and have the benefit of protecting your funeral money in the event you need to apply for and receive medical assistance. The monies are still yours, protected and earning interest. At the time of death we access these funds and apply them them towards your cremation expense. If there are excess funds, we return them to your estate. Please contact us for further explanation and assistance.
Are there other ways to arrange cremation?
Yes. Another option is to plan a traditional funeral with the body present. Often, a casket is rented; the body is normally embalmed, allowing viewing at the funeral home and/or church. Following the service, the cremation takes place. Please request a General Price List which describes these additional services - or they can be explained to you over the phone.
Do I have to have a service?
Minnesota Law views cremation as final disposition. Thus, when the process is completed, the intent of the law has been fulfilled. You can do what you please regarding the disposition of the cremains; options include burying, scattering or retaining them. However, we encourage you to plan a memorial service, whether on your own or with our assistance and consider a cemetery as a permanent resting place thus insuring future generations a place to visit.
Can I arrange and conduct our own service?
Some churches allow a family to plan their own service and provide staff to assist them. You will need to inquire. If you would like the peace of mind of having our funeral home assist you, we will arrange all service details – including working with your church or reserving our chapel; obituary placement, folder printing, ushering, managing the registry & memorial cards, flower set-up and later delivery - and if desired, arrange a procession to the cemetery. Please request a General Price List which describes these services - or they can be explained to you over the phone.
How do I obtain death certificates?
We can assist you in ordering certified copies ot the death certificate for up to six months following the date of death. After that, family members can obtain copies directly from any county in Minnesota.