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Where to Begin

Where to Begin

Planning a cremation can be overwhelming, but you are not alone in this. We’re here to support you throughout this journey and make this process one of healing, and life celebration. Below is some information to help you get started.


Within Hours

When a loved one dies at home without Hospice care or in a place that isn’t a healthcare facility, you’ll need to contact emergency personnel before they can be taken into our care. If your loved one was under medical care, it’s a good idea to call their physician as well.

If your loved one dies under Hospice care or in a healthcare facility, they will notify the proper authorities, including the funeral home you have chosen to care for your loved one if they know that information.

This part of the process is often the most emotional, and we are here to help and support you.



Within the First Few Days

You’ll want to notify close friends and relatives.

This also is the time to review any of your loved one’s preplanned cremation wishes and meet with a funeral director to begin planning their service. If your loved one did not plan in advance, you might want to start thinking about a few of the big choices you will need to make, such as:

  • The type of urn
  • The location of their final resting place, whether you decide to keep them within your home, spread them in a cherished location, or inter them in a garden, statue, or other memorial property
  • Any religious services you will need, such as clergy or spiritual leaders
  • The types of services you want, such as a viewing, service, graveside memorial, etc.

 

These questions are just a starting point, and you don't need to know the answers right away.




What to Expect When We Meet

When you meet with a member of our staff to discuss your arrangements, we'll provide you with a general price list to give you a basic idea of what our services cost.

This process will include:

  • Preparing and filing the official death certificate
  • Selecting an urn, or other products you may need
  • Drafting an obituary (Additional Fees)

 

We'd like to make this process as smooth and stress-free for you as we can, so remember to bring the following information about your loved one with you as well:

  • Full legal name and home address
  • Social security number
  • Date of birth
  • Place of birth
  • Father's name
  • Mother's maiden name
  • Veteran's discharge papers (DD-214), if applicable
  • Highest education
  • Occupation
  • Information about the burial or interment location if applicable

 

Please also bring a recent photograph.

Ohio & Pennsylvania Cremation & Memorial Society
Phone: (800) 262-5242
415 Robbins Avenue, Niles, OH

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