CASKETS
Part of the funeral service involves the selection
of a casket. The casket, which holds the deceased person, is part of
the focal point during the visitation and funeral ceremony. Selecting a casket can be an important part of preparing an appropriate tribute for the deceased family member. Services with cremation as the final form of disposition may also utilize a cremation casket or ceremonial casket.Most funeral homes offer a wide selection of
styles and prices for families to select from. Basically there are two
types of caskets, metal and wood.
Metal Caskets are offered in Bronze,
Copper, Stainless Steel and Carbon Steel. Bronze selections are a
naturally non-rusting material that is durable and the most valuable of
all metal selections. Copper selections are, like bronze, very durable;
however, not as strong as bronze. The Stainless Steel selections also
resist rust and are more durable than carbon steel. They are available
at a median price.
Wood caskets are available in a variety of
species that offer natural warmth and beauty, much like the furniture
found in most homes.
How does a family decide what type and style of casket to choose?
Several factors should be considered:
- Financial - at the time of a death of a
loved one it is easy to respond emotionally and possibly over-spend.
Families should be careful to stay within a price range they can afford.
- Personal Preferences - Often times the deceased may have requested a certain type or style of casket - perhaps one that reflected their lifestyle.
- Lifestyle Identification - many caskets
available today offer some personalization features, such as interior
panels featuring a forest or farm scene, fraternal or military emblems,
or various religious symbols.
- Sometimes the type of ceremony or service
will determine the type or style of casket to be selected. If cremation
has been chosen as the method of disposition, cremation caskets are
available. These caskets have been specially manufactured to be nearly
100% combustible.
When faced with a purchase decision, be sure to
get as much information as possible to help you make an informed
decision, as well as, which selection offers the best value. Funeral
directors are a source for information to help in the selection of an
appropriate casket.
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