Blog

Category Archives: Cremation

Eternal Journey Cremation and Life Celebration Haven

The journey of life is unique, filled with moments of joy, shared memories, and love. As such, the final farewell should be just as unique, reflecting the individual journey of your loved one. We provide a variety of services that honor the life lived and help families navigate through their time of loss. Recognized as a trusted provider of cremation services in Tukwila, WA, we are committed to making this difficult journey a little easier for the families we serve.

Respecting Cultural Diversity

We understand and respect the multicultural fabric of Tukwila. Catering to the varied customs and traditions of the Asian community – Filipino, Vietnamese, and Cantonese – among others, our team ensures that each service is a genuine reflection of the individual’s life and culture. Our culturally sensitive approach ensures that all services provided are respectful and thoughtful, honoring the diverse customs of our clientele.

Cremation Services: A Personalized Farewell

We offer professional and compassionate cremation services in Tukwila, WA. Our team understands the importance of a personalized farewell, ensuring each service is tailored to reflect the life lived by your loved one. We offer traditional, witnessed, and direct cremation services, providing families with various options to honor their loved ones in a way that aligns with their wishes.

Celebration of Life: Honoring Memories

Life is a tapestry of memories, and we believe in celebrating it fully. We provide spaces for “celebration of life” services and receptions. These gatherings are an opportunity to share stories, laughter, and sometimes tears as we remember the lives of those we’ve lost. These gatherings can be as unique as your loved one, from quiet intimate settings to larger, more communal events.

Aquamation: A Gentle Alternative

As part of our commitment to provide innovative and eco-friendly options, we offer aquamation or alkaline hydrolysis. This process uses water instead of fire, making it a gentler and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cremation. It provides families with a new way of saying goodbye that is both respectful to their loved one and kind to our planet.

Additional Services and Products

To support families during this difficult time, we provide a selection of associated products, including urns, caskets, memorial keepsakes, and more. These products are designed to aid in the commemoration and celebration of your loved one’s life, allowing for meaningful and personal memorials.

When the time comes to say goodbye to a loved one, it’s essential to choose a place that offers compassionate and professional services. Select a place that respects and honors diverse cultures and traditions. Choose a service provider that offers a range of options to help you through your journey of loss. If you’re looking for cremation services in Tukwila, WA, consider Columbia Funeral Home & Crematory. Here, every family is treated as our own, every life celebrated is a reflection of our commitment to service, and every farewell is handled with utmost care and respect.

Cremation Jewelry: Keeping Memories Close

Cremation jewelry is a beautiful and personal way to keep the memory of a loved one close to your heart. With a wide range of designs and styles available, cremation jewelry can be a meaningful keepsake that reflects your loved one’s personality and cultural background. As you navigate through the cremation services in West Seattle, WA, consider the options for cremation jewelry to help you cherish your loved one’s memory. This article will explore the various types of cremation jewelry and provide guidance on selecting the perfect piece.

Types of Cremation Jewelry

Cremation jewelry comes in many forms, including pendants, bracelets, rings, and earrings. These pieces often contain a small compartment to hold a portion of your loved one’s ashes or may incorporate the ashes into the design. Some popular styles include:

Ash-holding pendants: These pendants contain a small chamber to hold a portion of the ashes, typically sealed with a screw or a small rubber gasket.
Glass or crystal pieces: Ashes can be incorporated into the glass or crystal during the creation process, resulting in a unique and stunning piece of art.
Memorial diamonds: Some companies can transform ashes into lab-created diamonds, creating a truly one-of-a-kind keepsake.

Choosing the Right Design

When selecting cremation jewelry, consider the deceased’s personality, interests, and cultural background. For instance, you may want to choose a piece that reflects the Asian heritage of a Filipino, Vietnamese, or Chinese (Cantonese) loved one. In addition to cultural considerations, think about the individual’s personal style and preferences when selecting a piece that will be cherished for years to come.

Customization and Engraving

To add a personal touch to cremation jewelry, consider customizing the piece with engravings or unique elements. Many pieces can be engraved with the deceased’s name, dates, or a special message. Customization options might also include adding gemstones, birthstones, or other decorative elements that hold significance to the deceased and their loved ones.

Caring for Your Cremation Jewelry

Proper care and maintenance of cremation jewelry ensure that it remains a beautiful and lasting tribute to your loved one. To keep your jewelry looking its best, gently clean it with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the jewelry. When not wearing the piece, store it in a soft pouch or jewelry box to protect it from scratches and other damage.

Cremation jewelry is a unique and meaningful way to keep your loved one’s memory close to your heart. When exploring cremation services in West Seattle, WA, consider the various styles, designs, and customization options available for cremation jewelry. Columbia Funeral Home & Crematory, a provider of cremation services that cater to the diverse needs of the Asian community in Seattle, can offer guidance and support in selecting the perfect piece. By taking the time to choose a piece that reflects your loved one’s personality and cultural background, you can create a lasting tribute that will be cherished for years to come and maintain a strong connection to their memory.

Urn Selection: Find the Perfect Memorial

Selecting an urn for your loved one’s ashes is a deeply personal and meaningful process. It’s essential to find a memorial that represents the deceased’s personality and honors their memory. With a wide variety of urns available to accommodate different tastes and cultural backgrounds, including options for the Asian community in Seattle, it’s important to take your time and consider all aspects of the urn selection process. By understanding the various materials, designs, and customization options, you can make a well-informed decision that truly reflects your loved one’s unique spirit. This article will guide you through the process of selecting the perfect urn for your loved one, ensuring a beautiful and lasting tribute while considering the cremation services in Bellevue, WA.

Material Considerations

Urn materials can range from traditional options like wood, ceramic, and metal to more unique choices like glass, stone, or eco-friendly biodegradable materials. When selecting an urn, consider the deceased’s personality, preferences, and any cultural or religious factors that may influence the choice. For instance, certain materials may hold specific symbolism or importance within the Filipino, Vietnamese, or Chinese (Cantonese) communities.

Design and Aesthetics

The design of an urn should reflect the individual’s personality, interests, and cultural background. Some urns feature intricate engravings or artwork, while others have a more minimalist appearance. We offer a diverse range of urns, including designs inspired by Asian cultures, to help you find the perfect memorial for your loved one. Take your time to browse through the various options and choose a design that resonates with you and the memory of the deceased.

Size and Functionality

When selecting an urn, it’s important to consider its size and functionality. The urn should be large enough to hold the ashes but not excessively large, as it may become an impractical memorial. If you plan on scattering the ashes or dividing them among family members, consider urns designed for these specific purposes. The compassionate staff can help guide you in selecting the appropriate size and type of urn for your needs.

Customization and Personalization

Personalizing an urn can make it a truly unique and special memorial. Many urns can be engraved or customized with the deceased’s name, dates, or a meaningful message. Some urns even allow for the inclusion of photographs or artwork. Additionally, custom urns can reflect the cultural heritage and traditions that were important to the deceased, adding a layer of significance to the memorial. When choosing an urn, consider the customization options available and how they can help create a one-of-a-kind tribute to your loved one, ensuring that their memory is honored in a meaningful and personal way.

Selecting the perfect urn for your loved one’s ashes is an important part of the memorial process. Consider factors such as material, design, size, and personalization when making your decision. Columbia Funeral Home & Crematory, a provider of cremation services in Bellevue, WA, offers a wide selection of urns to accommodate the diverse needs of the Asian community in Seattle, ensuring that you can find a fitting tribute to honor your loved one’s memory.

Funeral Etiquette: A Guide for Mourners

When attending a funeral, it’s crucial to be respectful and considerate of the grieving family’s feelings and beliefs. Funeral customs can vary greatly across different cultures, making it essential to understand the specific etiquette associated with various traditions. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to funeral etiquette, focusing on the Asian community in Seattle, including Filipino, Vietnamese, and Chinese (Cantonese) customs. By understanding the nuances of funeral homes in Bellevue, WA, you’ll be better prepared to pay your respects and offer support to grieving families.

Filipino Funeral Traditions

In the Philippines, the mourning period typically lasts for nine days, during which the deceased’s body is often present in the family home. Visitors are expected to offer prayers, condolences, and assistance to the grieving family. While black and white attire is common, it’s essential to avoid wearing red, as it’s considered a symbol of happiness. Monetary contributions are also customary and help the family cover funeral expenses. Always remember to show respect and empathy when attending a Filipino funeral.

Vietnamese Funeral Customs

Vietnamese funerals are marked by three distinct ceremonies: the wake, the funeral procession, and the burial. The wake, which can last several days, involves family members and close friends gathering to pay their respects, with offerings of incense, flowers, and food. Attendees are expected to wear white headbands or armbands to signify mourning. The funeral procession, often led by a band or musicians, is followed by the burial, where family members perform rituals and offer prayers. It’s essential to be respectful of these customs and provide emotional support for the grieving family.

Chinese (Cantonese) Funeral Practices

Traditional Chinese funerals involve several rituals, including burning joss paper and offering food and drink to the deceased’s spirit. Mourners wear white or black clothing, and the family members may wear white mourning clothes made from coarse materials. During the funeral, visitors should offer condolences and, if appropriate, a monetary gift in a white envelope to help cover funeral expenses. Be mindful of the family’s customs and beliefs, and show respect for their loss.

Columbia Funeral Home & Crematory offers a wide range of services catering to diverse cultural practices, including cremation, burial, aquamation (alkaline hydrolysis), receptions, and celebration of life events. Their compassionate staff is well-versed in various funeral customs and will work closely with families to ensure a meaningful and respectful experience.

Understanding and respecting the unique funeral customs of different cultures is essential when attending a funeral. By following the etiquette outlined in this guide, you’ll be better equipped to offer support and comfort to grieving families from the Asian community in Seattle. If you find yourself in need of a funeral home in Bellevue, WA, consider Columbia Funeral Home & Crematory, which specializes in providing services tailored to the diverse needs of the Asian community.

Life Celebration After Cremation: Honoring Your Loved One’s Legacy

Cremation has become an increasingly popular choice for end-of-life arrangements, offering flexibility and affordability while still providing a meaningful way to honor the life of a loved one. After cremation, many families choose to hold a life celebration or memorial service to honor the legacy of their loved ones. We, at our cremation services at Tukwila, WA, provided different services such as the celebration of life and cremation, that you’re looking.

For now, here are some ideas and considerations for planning a life celebration after cremation.

Location

When planning a life celebration after cremation, one of the first considerations is the location. There are many options available, such as hosting the celebration at a community center, a local park, a beach, or a family member’s home. Choosing a location that holds meaning for the deceased can provide comfort and create a more personal and meaningful experience.

Timing

The timing of the life celebration is another important consideration. Some families choose to hold the celebration immediately following the cremation, while others may choose to wait until a later date to allow for more planning time or to accommodate out-of-town guests. The timing can also depend on cultural or religious traditions, as some cultures may have specific mourning periods or rituals to observe.

Personalization

One of the benefits of a life celebration after cremation is the ability to personalize the experience to honor the unique qualities and interests of the deceased. Consider incorporating elements such as their favorite music, hobbies, or activities into the celebration. This can include displaying photographs, playing their favorite songs, or sharing stories and memories with loved ones.

Memorialization

Another important aspect of a life celebration after cremation is memorialization. There are many options available to honor the memory of the deceased, such as creating a memorial website, planting a tree in their honor, or creating a memorial bench or plaque. These options can provide a tangible way to remember the loved one and provide comfort to family and friends.

Cremation Jewelry

Cremation jewelry is another unique way to honor the legacy of a loved one after cremation. Cremation jewelry is made by incorporating a small amount of the cremated remains into the design of a piece of jewelry, such as a pendant, bracelet, or ring. This option allows individuals to keep a physical reminder of their loved one close to their heart.

Finally, life celebration after cremation can be a meaningful and personal way to honor the legacy of a loved one. By choosing a location that holds meaning, personalizing the experience, and incorporating elements of memorialization, families can create a unique and meaningful celebration that reflects the life and personality of the deceased. Planning a life celebration after cremation can be a healing and transformative experience for families as they navigate the grieving process and continue to honor the memory of their loved one. And, we want to assist you in creating this healing process with our provider of cremation services at Tukwila, WA.

Aquamation: The Eco-Friendly Alternative to Traditional Cremation

Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, is an innovative and eco-friendly alternative to traditional cremation. It involves using a combination of water, heat, and alkaline chemicals to break down the body of the deceased, leaving only the bones. The process is gaining popularity due to its environmentally friendly nature and the range of associated products it offers. Good thing, if you don’t want to have the traditional cremation, our cremation services in West Seattle, WA also offer this type of eco-friendly alternative.

One of the main benefits of aquamation is that it is significantly less harmful to the environment than traditional cremation. Cremation releases large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. In contrast, aquamation has a much lower carbon footprint and is considered a more sustainable option.

Another benefit of aquamation is that it produces a sterile, liquid byproduct that is safe for the environment. This byproduct, known as cremated remains or “ashes,” can be used in a variety of ways. It can be scattered in a meaningful location, placed in an urn, or used to create a piece of memorial jewelry. In addition to traditional cremation urns, there are many new and unique products available that are specifically designed for aquamation remains. These products include biodegradable urns made from materials such as bamboo or sand, memorial jewelry made from ashes, and even customized pieces of artwork.

For those who want to keep their loved one close to them, memorial jewelry made from aquamation remains can be a meaningful and unique way to honor their memory. This type of jewelry can be made in a variety of styles, including pendants, rings, and bracelets, and can contain a small amount of the ashes.

Another unique way to honor the memory of a loved one is to commission a piece of artwork that incorporates their cremated remains. This can be a painting, sculpture, or even a glass-blown piece. These one-of-a-kind pieces can provide a lasting tribute to the person and their life.

Aquamation is also gaining popularity in the veterinary industry. Many pet owners are choosing aquamation for their beloved pets as a more eco-friendly and sustainable option. The process is similar to that used for humans and produces the same sterile liquid byproduct that can be used to create memorial jewelry or artwork.

In conclusion, aquamation is an innovative and eco-friendly alternative to traditional cremation. It offers a range of benefits, including a lower carbon footprint, a sterile liquid byproduct, and a variety of unique products to honor the memory of a loved one.

Do you have more queries or you like to know more about aquamation and cremation services in West Seattle, WA? Feel free to contact us anytime you are ready. We are available and open for your needs 24/7. We will show you the best products and services that we can provide to you. Not just that, we also have reliable staff and funeral directors that you can trust during this hardest part of your life.

How to Pre-Arrange a Cremation?

Prearranging cremation with your loved ones or as a member of a cremation society enables you to communicate your ultimate intentions to your family, which is a selfless deed during their time of need. By writing these wishes, you are helping family members and funeral and cremation service providers in ensuring that they are fully and appropriately carried out. It is reassuring to know that decisions have already been taken prior to the time of need, since the events before, occurring during, and following the death of a loved one can be stressful for all involved parties. We, at cremation Services in Bellevue, WA, want to help you and your family in time of need as well, that is why we also offer this type of service for our customers.

And now, here are the following steps you can follow in prearranging a cremation:

Choose a Cremation Provider. The first step in prearrangement is selecting a cremation service provider you can rely on, who is trustworthy and capable of carrying out your preferences. Compile a list of questions and concerns to ask the provider with your spouse or family.
Know your options. Prearrangement allows you to learn about your options in a stress-free setting and to deliberate about these selections. You will have complete authority and can choose and specify the services that are meaningful to you and your family.
Wishes require proper documentation. Preplanning guarantees your wishes will be carried out. Ensure that your wishes are documented in writing and discussed with your family and an attorney. Maintain a folder with copies of this document and other essential paperwork in an easily accessible location for family members.
Engage the rest family members. Prearrangement is a great time for relatives to discuss preparations and make objective decisions together, free of the time constraints and emotional stress that frequently accompany the death of a loved one. Including your loved one’s closest family and friends in this process might bring you peace of mind and a sense of relief.
Determine the final disposition method. This is a highly personal choice affected by a person’s faith and views. This is really important and you have the authority to choose what will be the final disposition that you want.
Don’t hesitate to ask about rates. Costs for cremation might vary significantly from location to location. Choose a funeral home that provides its rates in a clear and straightforward manner, and request a detailed price list of its products and services.
Consider preparing ahead and prepaying for services. Arranging a cremation service in advance can settle the details, but only prepayment can cover the actual expense in advance. Have in mind that these services are subject to inflation. Prepayment makes good financial sense since it locks in current costs for an event that may not occur for years.

If you’re looking for an expert that can help you with the pre-arrangements, our cremation Services in Bellevue, WA is here for you. Please contact us whenever you are ready and we will be there to assist you.

What Is a Green Cremation Service?

Green cremation is an environmentally friendly type of cremation that reduces a deceased person’s body to skeletal remains. It is also known as a “water cremation” or a “hydro cremation” in the funeral business since extremely hot water and potassium hydroxide are used to complete the process rather than fire. Good thing, a company of cremation services at Tukwila, WA offers green services that you might also be looking for, with that, anytime you can check our website. The Department of Anatomy at the Mayo Clinic has been utilizing alkaline hydrolysis, sometimes known as resomation, as a means of the final disposition of the deceased’s body.

Surely, after you understand what a green cremation is and how the process works, you can make an informed decision as to whether you or a loved one would consider it.

The Process of Alkaline Hydrolysis Cremation:

According to the Cremation Institute, this is what occurs during the cremation of this type.

First, the deceased person’s body is wrapped in natural material, generally a silk robe, and placed in a stainless-steel chamber within a resonator unit machine.
Next, the machine is then filled with approximately 80% gallons of a solution consisting of 95% percent water and 5% percent potassium hydroxide. After weighing the body, the machine determines the exact amount of solution required.
Then, the unit is subsequently compressed and the water is heated to roughly 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This eliminates any current microorganisms and dissolves the remaining soft tissue.
Afterward, the machine then undergoes a rinse cycle, the residual liquid is emptied into a separate holding tank, and primarily bone pieces remain.
Last but not least, the fragments are examined for non-natural components, such as dental fillings and medical implants. The fragments are then dried and ground into a fine, white powder that, like other cremains, can be deposited in an appropriate container or urn.

Where Is Bio Cremation Authorized?

In the United States, bio-cremation is permissible in some states but not others. Even in states where this sort of cremation is allowed, facilities may not yet be available to carry it out. Thus, you should research the laws in your state.

If you, as consumers keep looking for environmentally safe alternatives, acceptance of the technique will grow. Yet, the industry is reluctant to adapt, so for many people, traditional cremation is the only alternative.

Green cremation could become the norm in the future due to a lack of available land for traditional graves and increased concern for the environment. Find out if it is offered in your community and have a conversation with your loved ones if it is. Then you and your loved ones can decide if it’s the right decision. Truly, with green cremation, we return to the ground through the natural cycle of life, so assisting in the development of new life as nature intended.

If you have more questions and want additional details about green cremation or other services, do not hesitate to reach out or contact our cremation services at Tukwila, WA. Our staff will be there to guide you.

Which is Best? Cremation or Burial

Cremation has overtaken burial as the most common method of final disposition because of its rapid rise in popularity over the past several years. Although the decision between burial and cremation is extremely personal, however, when making the decision, it is necessary to take into consideration several factors. Before that, did you know that there is a cremation service in West Seattle, WA that offers both burial and cremation services? Well, our company offers not only burial and cremation services but a lot more.

For now, let’s move on to the various elements to consider when you are in the middle of deciding between burial or cremation service:

The big differences between burial and cremation service

Let’s explore the differences and distinctions between cremation and burial to start. When a body is cremated, it is burnt until only ashes remain. With burial, the body is preserved. Both cremation and burial can occur soon after a person’s death, either after a typical funeral service or before a memorial service. The body may be buried in the ground or entombed in a mausoleum in the case of a burial. In contrast, cremated remains may be kept by the family, scattered, buried, or placed in a columbarium. In general, cremation is the more cost-effective option.

Respect the remains.

When we chat with people who are considering between burial and cremation, a few recurring themes and questions arise. The desire to honor the deceased’s memory and, by extension, their body is one of the most frequently voiced concerns. It is noteworthy to note, however, that for some people, this entails preserving the body’s integrity, whereas, for others, the idea of letting the remains decompose underground is unthinkable. In many cultures and religions, viewing the body is a crucial aspect of the funeral ceremony. Numerous individuals erroneously believe that this is impossible if cremation is chosen. In reality, it is rather normal for a viewing to occur before cremation.

Religious Faith/Beliefs

Christian opinions on cremation vary. The Catholic Church banned cremation until the 1960s. However, the cremated remains must be interred, not scattered or carried home by survivors. Methodist, Seventh-day Adventist, and Lutheran churches allow cremation, although Baptist, conservative, and Eastern Orthodox churches do not. Some Jews now accept cremation. Hinduism and Buddhism mandate cremation. Culturally, Sikhs favor cremation; however, burial is allowed. Muslims cannot cremate.

Environmental Impact

Both burial and cremation have environmental pros and cons. Both sides argue over which option is greener. Some say cremation releases a lot of pollutants, while others say it’s greener because traditional caskets aren’t biodegradable and embalming fluids are poisonous. The popularity of natural burials, sometimes known as eco-burials, has been on the rise in recent years. Burials in this style use biodegradable, compostable coffins and never include the use of embalming substances.

It is a tough and deeply personal choice between burial and cremation. If you are still having difficulty with it, you may want to address it with your family or other loved ones. Additionally, you can seek the support and advice of a funeral director on our cremation services in West Seattle, WA. We will guide you as much as we can.

What Should I Know Before Deciding on Cremation?

Whether you’re arranging a funeral now or considering your options for the future, cremation or burial should be a primary consideration. You’ve definitely heard of cremation, but you may have questions about its details. How does cremation work? What does it mean to choose it for a loved one or for yourself? Would cremation be the most suitable choice for you? After choosing cremation, what other decisions will you need to make? There are a variety of questions that may arise, so continue reading to learn more. Anyway, our cremation services near Bellevue, WA are also here to help you out.

What exactly is cremation?

In simple terms, cremation is one way to dispose of a deceased person’s body. Cremation is typically less expensive than a regular burial, which contributes to its rising popularity worldwide. Unlike burial, in which the deceased is placed in a casket or coffin and buried in the ground or housed in a mausoleum, cremation involves the transformation of the deceased’s bones into ashes using a fire- or liquid-based procedure.

How cremation works?

High temperatures and evaporation reduce a body to its basic elements in cremation. Cremation reduces the body to bone fragments by heating and burning it in a specific container. The residues are converted into ash-like ash after cooling. Then, the family receives the cremated remains, which weigh 3-7 pounds, in an urn or temporary container. Subsequently, they have an option for memorialization.

How long does cremation take?

On average, a cremation takes roughly three hours. This is just an estimate, and actual cremation procedures may differ depending on the service provider and other factors.

What are things to consider when choosing between burial or cremation?

It is a personal decision to choose between burial and cremation. Consider the following factors while determining whether cremation is the best choice.

Respecting the individual. If you are making this decision on behalf of a deceased person who did not leave directions, consider what they would have preferred.

Respecting the living. If you’re planning for yourself, you may select cremation for a number of reasons, including that you want your ashes to be scattered or stored with family so that they do not have to visit a cemetery. If you are planning for a loved one and they have not given specific instructions, it is not selfish at all to consider your own preferences and requirements.

Respecting the environment. You may believe that burial is more environmentally friendly than cremation, however this is not always the case. Cremation costs a great deal of energy and does release chemicals into the environment, but many experts believe it is a more environmentally-friendly option than, for example, embalming and traditional burial.

Respecting religious beliefs. If religion is a significant part, it should be considered prior to selecting cremation, as certain religious traditions have strong beliefs about the subject.

What if cremation isn’t right for me?

The concept of cremation may not be acceptable to all people. If this is the case, there are a number of burial choices that can be made in advance to guarantee that your intentions are followed through.

Are you still in dilemma? Contact us or visit our cremation services near Bellevue, WA, so we can assist you with everything that you need and want to ask.

Call now: 1-206-722-1100