Caskets

Unlike many other enterprises, a funeral home must serve the community as a whole. When it comes to the selection of a casket each family has different views and values which lead to their decision. Some consider the casket a final tribute, others make their choice based upon something in its make-up that draws meaning from the deceased's life, and still others seek only to serve the most basic purposes. The value of a casket has nothing at all to do with how a family feels about their loved one, but everything to do with the materials from which it is crafted and the level of detail in its finishing. You can be sure choices are offered in all price ranges taking into account the needs of all in our community. Below you will find further information on choices and costs.

Crafted like fine wood furniture, caskets of solid hardwood are a popular choice. Many prefer hardwood because of the warmth of its appearance and the unique graining patterns making each one an original. We offer a broad range of species in maple, cherry, oak, walnut, mahogany and poplar. Similar to furniture, the value of a hardwood casket is reflective of the species. Generally woods like poplar are of the more basic price range; cherry, oak and maple of the median price range; and walnut and mahogany of the greater valued choices. Caskets of more basic quality are generally finished in veneers of cottonwood, ash or poplar and some are fabric covered particleboard.

Caskets manufactured of metal tend to be selected due to the longevity of the material after interment, and are generally hermetically sealed when closed. They are finished in various colour tones and some have a brushed finish which enhances their appearance. Basic metal caskets tend to be made of 18 or 20 gauge steel. The gauge indicates the thickness, the lower the gauge, the thicker the metal. Median quality metal caskets are made of 16 gauge steel or stainless steel. Premium metal caskets are made of semiprecious metals such as copper or bronze.

Some families selecting cremation opt for a ceremonial casket which is utilized for visitation and the funeral service. For the cremation process the deceased is transferred into a basic container which is included in the cost of the ceremonial casket. We offer three choices: a solid maple, solid oak, and 18 gauge steel ceremonial casket.

Often selected for burial or cremation without ceremony, these containers satisfy the basic necessities for transportation purposes. Some include a simple interior and are therefore suitable for a private family viewing prior to cremation or burial.