Caskets or Cauldrons? Unveiling the Quirky World of Final Resting Places

Today, we're tackling a topic that's not exactly a barrel of laughs, but it's important nonetheless: what to do with a body when you or your loved one crosses over to the great beyond. We'll dive into the age-old debate of burial vs. cremation and even explore a few other intriguing options that have popped up in recent years.

Traditional Burial

Many cultures have been putting their dearly departed six feet under for centuries as a sign of respect and to keep nature's clean-up crew at bay. Traditional burial often involves embalming to preserve the body, so it's presentable for the farewell ceremony. If you’re price sensitive, however, brace yourself because traditional burial can get a bit pricey. The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) reported that the median cost of a funeral with a viewing and burial is approximately $7,848. If a vault is required by the cemetery, that figure jumps to $9,420.

And we’re not done yet. Those estimates are all before you factor in the cost of a burial plot and a headstone. In the Portland area, small, volunteer run cemeteries like where Kris is buried currently start at $1500. Larger, more prominent cemeteries with a view to die for (pun intended) can command a six-figure price tag, but they’re also meticulously maintained and often have more services available to the family.

Headstones can be expensive, depending on how big and fancy you want them to be. The cheapest are flat markers that lie flush with the ground, and the most expensive are monuments and benches. We chose a bench for our plot because it's a nice place to sit and think about Kris.

The knock against burials is that they’re bad for the environment. The chemicals used in embalming can be harmful to morticians and the ground, and the making of caskets and vaults can pollute the air. Plus, keeping cemeteries green and lush requires a lot of water and fertilizer.

Cremation

Cremation is the hot choice (pun again intended) these days. The process involves cranking up the heat to about 1800°F and transforming the body into ashes, also known as cremains. What to do with these ashes is up to you and your family's wishes, whether it's placing them in urns, burying them, or even launching them into space! Cremation can be a bit lighter on the wallet, coming in at around $6,970 for the whole package, excluding any special cremains-related plans. However, it’s not much of a greener option than a traditional burial due to fuel consumption and emissions.

Green Burial

If you're all about Mother Earth, consider a green burial. No embalming, just biodegradable materials and shrouds, which can make it kinder to the environment. While the plot might cost about as much as a regular burial, you could save on expenses since there's no traditional casket and embalming. Green burial plots in local cemeteries may be limited, and be sure to check local regulations if you have the perfect place not already zoned as a cemetery.

Aquamation

The eco-friendly new kid on the block is aquamation. Forget flames; it uses heated water (a process known as alkaline hydrolysis) to break down the body. Environmentally conscious and costs similar to cremation.

Donation to Science

Feeling altruistic? Donating your body to science can help train future doctors and contribute to life-saving research. However, there usually won't be a traditional funeral or memorial service. Also, be cautious about shady brokers who might overcharge or use the body in a different way than promised. Ask lots of questions and read agreements carefully.

Remember, these choices aren't set in stone (last pun, I promise). New ideas are emerging all the time. It's crucial to have a heart-to-heart with your family about what feels right for you and them. And if you've got a plan in mind, consider pre-paying – it can ease the financial burden for your loved ones down the line.

ACTION ITEM:

• Consider the options above and others you may have researched. Pick your top three and talk to your family about which would bring more peace to them after you’ve died.

• If you know what you want, contact various providers and consider pre-paying for the services. Often this can save the family thousands of dollars when you die.