Cremation grows in popularity

Funeral home offers dignified services

By J.M. Simpson on May 23, 2019

Cremation is rapidly becoming the preferred choice for families and friends to pay their last respects to those who have passed.

About half a century ago, nearly all who died in the United States were buried and only about four percent were cremated.

Since then, economic, societal and religious perspectives have changed from burial to cremation services.

According to the latest data from the Cremation Association of North America (CANA), the cremation rate in 2015 stood at 48.6 percent and is projected to reach 54.3 percent by 2020.

In Washington state, cremation services are selected almost 80 percent of the time, second only to Nevada.

"Cremation has grown in popularity," commented Clarke Thomson, the General Manager at Mountain View Funeral Home, Memorial Park and Crematory.

Since its first burial service in 1915, Mountain View has exhibited a commitment to caring excellence to all those it serves in their time of need.

"This is a profession that cares for and supports individuals who are at one of the most difficult times of their lives, and we do that consistently well," continued Thomson.

When it comes to cremation services, Mountain View preforms on-site, approximately 1,000 cremations per year, and approximately 50 percent of passed veterans opted for cremation.

A recent report by the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) stated that the cremation rate in America is increasing because of growing religious acceptance, environmental concerns, the costs of a traditional burial, and a more transient society.

"Veterans and their families understand these concepts well," added Thomson.

The report also pointed out that the five major reasons cremation is selected is to save money, save land, simplicity, personal preference and an aversion to burial.

"We preform this service in a respectful and dignified manner here at Mountain View," continued Thomson, "families take comfort in knowing their loved one never leaves our care."

Cremation also allows family members to be as much of a part of the process as they wish.

"If they choose, family members are allowed to witness the cremation of a loved one," he continued, "and some even elect to push the button that begins the process."

As the data from the CANA points out, cremated remains are easily transported, there are no pressing constraints as to when the cremated remains can be honored, and they can be scattered at a meaningful site or incorporated into keepsakes such as jewelry.

Thomson mentioned that Mountain View no longer conducts scatterings but it does help to make arrangements for those families who wish to scatter the cremated of a loved one.

He added that individuals should create a plan for what their wishes are when they pass.

"Give your family guidance and yourself peace of mind," concluded Thomson.

Mountain View Funeral Home, Memorial Park and Crematory is located at 4100 Steilacoom Blvd. SW in Lakewood. For more information about cremation services, visit mountainviewtacoma.com or call 253. 330.5449.