Traditional Services

Over the past several generations, a traditional service typically involved embalming, a visitation and/or viewing, followed by a funeral service. It has been the decision of the family whether to have the casket open. It is not unusual for families to change the order of events within a traditional service, such as having a graveside service occur prior to a visitation and service. Except in certain cases, embalming is not required by law. Embalming may be necessary, however, if you select certain funeral arrangements, such as a public viewing.

Increasingly, there has been a preference for more simple options. Many families have decided that they are not interested in what has become known as a traditional funeral. However, they think their only alternative is cremation. Simple Funerals, Inc. is designed to offer affordable, alternative burial options that do not require embalming yet allow for family viewings and public graveside services.  Simple Funerals, Inc. uses all-wood caskets hand-crafted by Sauder Products. We are proud to be one of the most affordable funeral homes in the area. 

Burial FAQ

Can we dig our own grave to avoid the charge for opening and closing?

The actual opening and closing of the grave is just one component of the cemetery fee. Due to safety issues that arise around the use of machinery on cemetery property, and the protection of other gravesites, the actual opening and closing of the grave is conducted by cemetery grounds personnel only.

Why is having a place to visit so important?

To remember, and to be remembered. A permanent memorial in a cemetery provides a focal point for remembrance and memorializing the deceased. Memorialization of the dead is a key component in almost every culture. Psychologists say that remembrance practices serve an important emotional function for survivors by helping them bring closure, which allows the healing process to begin. The provision of a permanent resting place is an important part of this process.

Are cemeteries running out of land?

Most active cemeteries in our area have adequate space for future generations or possibilities for expansion. Some cemeteries have been proactive in developing plans for more efficient use of space by creating cremation-only sections.

In a hundred years, will this cemetery still be there?

Although no one can answer this question with certainty, most cemeteries exist in perpetuity.

How soon after a death must an individual be buried?

There is no law that states a specific time-span for burial, however, considerations that affect the time period include: the need to secure all permits and authorizations; notification of family and friends; preparation of the cemetery site, and scheduling of participants.

Does a body have to be embalmed before it is buried?

No. Embalming is generally a choice, one that depends on factors such as family preference or whether there is to be a public open casket viewing of the body. Public health laws may require embalming if the body is going to be transported by air or rail or death from a contagious disease or disease requiring quarantine.

What are burial vaults and grave liners?

These are the outside containers into which the casket is placed. Burial vaults are designed to protect the casket and may be made of a variety of materials, including concrete, stainless steel, galvanized steel, copper, bronze, plastic, or fiberglass. A grave liner is a lightweight version of a vault that keeps the grave surface from sinking but is not designed to provide protection from moisture.

Must I purchase a burial vault?

Most cemeteries have regulations that require as a minimum the use of a basic grave liner for maintenance and safety purposes. Either a grave liner or a burial vault will satisfy these requirements.  In most cases, outer burial contains are not required by law.

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