Cremation FAQ

In an effort to provide the best information possible, our experienced team at Speers have come together to provide answers to our most commonly asked questions about cremation.

Should you have any additional questions about cremation, we invite you to use our convenient Ask the Funeral Director Form, or contact us.

What is cremation?

Cremation is the process of reducing the human body to bone fragments using high heat and flame.  Cremation is not the final disposition of the remains, nor is it a type of funeral service.

Is a casket needed for cremation?

In Saskatchewan,  some type of rigid, sealed container is required by law, to transport the deceased to the crematorium and to place in the cremation chamber. Speers offers several casket options, that are designed specifically for cremation, all of which are suitable for a Family Farewell. 

Is embalming required prior to cremation?

In Saskatchewan, embalming is not required by law, however, we would strongly recommend it when a viewing is to take place longer than 3-4 days (quite variable) after the death or when other circumstances of the death may make more than basic preparation necessary.   

Can the body be viewed without embalming?

Yes, Speers can arrange for family members to briefly view a loved one prior to cremation.

Can the family witness the cremation?

Speers can arrange for the family to witness the cremation at the Regina Community Crematorium for an additional fee of $135.  In fact, some religious groups even include this as part of their funeral custom.

What can be done with the cremated remains?

Burying cremated remains in a traditional or cremation-specific cemetery plot remains a popular option in Saskatchewan. Today, many cemeteries such as Riverside Memorial Park in Regina offer a variety of additional choices for cremation, including memorial benches and columbaria.

Alternatively, cremated remains can be kept at home in a personalized urn or scattered at your loved one’s favourite place such as the family farm or cottage.

How can I be sure I receive the correct remains?

Regina Community Crematorium Licensed Cremation Technicians have developed rigorous operating policies and procedures in order to maximize the level of service and minimize the potential for human error.  Since it is illegal in Saskatchewan to perform more than one cremation at a time, it is nearly impossible to receive the incorrect remains.

How long does the actual cremation take?

For an average sized adult, cremation can take two to three hours at a normal operating temperature of between 1,000 and 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

What do the cremated remains look like?

Cremated remains resemble coarse sand and are whitish to light grey in color.  The remains of an average sized adult usually weighs between 7 and 8 pounds.

Are all the cremated remains returned?

With the exception of minute and microscopic particles, which are impossible to remove from the cremation chamber and processing machine, all of the cremated remains are given back to the family.

Do I need an urn?

An urn is not required by Saskatchewan law, but may be important  to the family for proper presentation at a memorial service.  The family is not required to purchase the urn from the funeral home if they wish to source it elsewhere. If an urn is not purchased or provided by the family, the cremated remains will be returned in a temporary plastic container.

We hope that this page helped you learn about cremation. Should you have any further questions, please contact us.