How to prepare for cremation of a loved one?

We were asked that in my sister's case as well. They seemed to be concerned mainly about mechanical devices, things with batteries or motors in them such as pacemakers. I'm not sure what effect it has but yes they do want to know.

The only other practical advice I can offer is to be familar with the medical history of the body that is to cremated. When I went in to pay I had to fill out a form that asked questions about hip and knee replacement, bridges in the mouth, pace maker, metal skrews, implants etc. I never asked about it but assumed there must be something in the process where this information mattered - to be honest, I really didn't want to know. Anyhow - I just recalled that detail...

My husband died on hospice last week. I was home alone with him, I called his hospice nurse and she came and took care of everything, called the funeral home, the medical examiner, etc. I had begun arrangements for cremation and the funeral home followed up with me on it, after a day or two. I really appreciated the fact that they all knew what to do and who to call.

I knew both my parents wanted to be cremated. When my dad was given two weeks I asked his old IL place for a referral. I called the place, asked questions. Since my father was on hospice I gave them the name and number of the place. When the time came hospice called them. The place came and picked up my fathers body, arranged for what needed to be done as far as a medical examiner and death certificate. The next day I went in and paid - at this time one could select urns, order extra death certificates etc. A few days later they called me, I went in and pick my fathers ashes and death certificates. Beggining to end it was about a week. Not quite sure how it works if someone dies at home - but I believe the police and EMTs need to be called to varify death - perhaps they then ask you if you have a place selected and then make the call.

I agree with what Pam said, but I wonder if you can just call a local crematory and ask them their procedures. Maybe the crematory can pick up the body and transport it, which I assume is what you would want if you don't plan to have a funeral service. I would at least call and ask.

Your funeral director handles all the details. You don't just drive up to a crematory, you can't. There are state laws about who can transport a body.