Cremation Services
When a body is cremated, it is taken to a crematory, where intense heat or fire reduces the body to a few pounds of bone fragments and ashes within two hours. After the cremation is complete, the remains are placed in an urn.
Gerst Funeral Homes will provide the following for immediate cremation services:
- Removal of the body
- Cremation
- Provide all necessary containers
Cremation Containers
Up to two selections can be made. A casket to or an Alternative container must be used to transport the body to a crematory or for family identification.
1. The simplest container available is a (title) container for $95 that satisfies any minimum requirements at the crematory.
2. Other alternative containers offer minimum intrusions and an improved external appearance. Some choices are the Standard @ $395 and the Pacific Pine @ $750.
3. A cremation casket offers many of the same feature's a traditional casket. Solid wood construction with a velvet interior, and optional handles for the pall bearers. Some examples are the Newport for $950 and the Cherry for $2,295.
Most cremation containers are part of the Living Memorial Tree Planting Program. With the purchase of a Batesville casket or Options cremation product, we'll arrange to plant a tree in a national forest to keep the memory of your loved one alive and protect the environment for years to come. This "growing" legacy is available at no charge.
