All About Cremations in Saint Charles, MO

Cremation services are what we specialize in, allowing us to provide a lower cost for families in Saint Charles, MO and the surrounding area. Cremation Society of Missouri was built with you and your family’s comfort in mind. and has been keeping cremation simple since 1935. We offer very affordable and simple packages, designed to give you everything you need – without hidden fees. Our team has a reputation for providing the absolute best caring and detailed service available. No matter where you live, or when a death occurs, you have the peace of mind of knowing you have chosen a trusted professional. Call us at (636) 946-9896, we are here to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

As a form of body disposition, cremation continues to grow in popularity year after year. There are likely many reasons for this. With environmental concerns surrounding limited land use for cemetery burial, cremation leaves a smaller physical footprint, even if the ashen remains are buried. Some people are concerned with the burial of toxic chemical loads used in embalming processes and synthetic materials that may be present in caskets, containers, and burial clothing. Cremations in Saint Charles, MO, provide low-cost alternatives to traditional burial options because there are typically fewer services performed for the care of the deceased.

Cremation can legally only be performed for one person at a time. Cremation cannot even begin without all applicable permits and waiting periods completed first. Additionally, protective regulation surrounds the process to ensure that best ethical practices and security protocols are followed. Competent firms will have transparent and detailed procedures to help the experts easily identify your loved one at every step of the process.

The procedure begins by preparing the body-washing and dressing as desired. Next, the corpse will usually be placed in lightweight, combustible containers like rigid cardboard or thin plywood. This container helps to preserve the privacy of the departed and also protects those who are handling the remains. After the filled container is ready, it will be placed in the cremation chamber. 

Once all is secure, high heat will be applied to the furnace chamber, which will cause all contents to burst into flames. The burning is allowed to continue until all soft tissues are consumed—usually around one to two hours later. After a cooling period, the remaining fragments (primarily bones) will be collected and processed into the form we call ashes or cremated remains. This cremated body will be returned to the next of kin for final placement. 

How Simple Cremations in Saint Charles, MO Result in Cost Savings

Cremation is a process that is not easily viewed by a large audience. However, some facilities have a viewing window where you and a few close relations can see the body loaded into the chamber if you wish. Cremation is always handled with respect and dignity but isn’t generally considered an honoring ceremony by itself. If desired, you can plan to have a funeral service before the cremation or have the cremation followed by a memorial service. These are typically referred to as complete cremation services.

However, honoring ceremonies are optional. If you need a low-cost cremation, consider a simple or direct cremation. This offers you the option to have only a cremation without a publicly attached service. The expenses associated with a funeral or even a memorial event can significantly elevate the price of death care. With simple cremation, the body will require far less preparation. There will not be a need for expensive caskets, burial containers, embalming, or venue space. Fees associated with burial, such as the plot, gravestone, opening and closing costs, and perpetual care fees, can be altogether eliminated if desired. 

Where to Place the Cremated Remains 

As you make arrangements for a simple cremation, you can stay with streamlined options for the final placement of the cremated body. However, a nice benefit of choosing cremation is that there are many possible solutions for the final disposition. Here are a few ideas to get you thinking:

• Ash Scattering: The cremated body can be returned to the earth in nature or a setting that has meaning to the family or the deceased person. Be sure to find out if there are any required permissions or permits for your chosen location.

• Burial of Inurned Remains: You can have the ashes buried in a traditional cemetery or entombed within a columbarium niche at your chosen cemetery or burial park. 

• Display in a Funerary Urn: Some families wish to keep the cremated body close to home and can purchase a displayable urn to keep the ashes in a safe place. 

• Installed in a Memorial Bench or Monument: Cremation benches and some monuments are designed with a hollowed space meant for receiving the cremated body. These work wonderfully in cemeteries but may be appropriate in other locations with permissions and permits. 

• Fireworks: They say the sky is the limit, and for some families, this becomes literal with the option to have the cremated remains packaged into vibrant, spectacular fireworks. Though this may not work for everyone, it is undoubtedly a memorable and unique way to singularly honor your loved one’s memory. 

Plan Ahead to Further Maximize Savings or Arrange for Immediate Service

The Cremation Society of Missouri is prepared to help you with respectful, secure, and efficient cremations in Saint Charles, MO. If you know you are interested in a low-cost, simple cremation, you may be able to further maximize your savings by planning and purchasing the service now instead of waiting until the actual time of need. Learn more about our facility by calling (636) 946-9896 to schedule a tour or service at 2338 Highway 94 South Outer Rd, Saint Charles, MO 63303.



Funeral Home & Cremations FAQs

Can I arrange my own cremation?                                                            

In most cases, you cannot arrange your own cremation. Instead, the cremation process must be arranged by a licensed funeral director. The funeral director will obtain the necessary permits and ensure that all of the required paperwork is completed. They will also transport the body to the crematory and oversee the cremation itself. In some states, it is possible for family members to transport the body to the crematory, but this is generally not recommended. Cremation is a complex process, and it is important to have someone who is experienced in handling cremations. As a result, it is best to leave the arrangements to a professional funeral director. Pre-arrange your cremation today and lift the burden off your family in the future.

Where can I check obituaries in Missouri?

In Missouri, there are a few different places where you can check for obituaries. The most common place to find them is in the local newspaper. Most newspapers will have an online version that you can access, or you can pick up a physical copy at your local newsstand. You can also check with the funeral home’s Obituaries in Missouri that are handling the arrangements. They may have an online obituary that you can view, or they may be able to provide you with a physical copy. By using these methods, you should be able to find the obituary you are looking for.

Do VA benefits pay for the cremation?

The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a range of benefits to eligible veterans and their families. These benefits can help with the costs of health care, housing, education, and more. One benefit that is available is burial assistance. The VA will pay for cremation or interment in a VA national cemetery, as well as provide a headstone or marker. However, the VA does not cover the cost of transportation to the cemetery or any additional services. Read on for more information on how to apply for veteran burial assistance.