Saying Goodbye: Choosing between Cremation and Burial

By Cleo Funeral and Cremation Specialists
8 minute read
  • There's no "right" or "wrong" choice – the best decision is what feels meaningful to you and your family
  • Cremation has become increasingly popular, chosen by about 73% of Canadians
  • Your decision may be influenced by factors like flexibility, cost, personalization, and cultural background
  • Regional differences exist, with traditional burial still more common in some areas like Quebec
  • Whatever you choose, the most important thing is honoring your loved one in a way that brings you comfort
  • If you're reading this, chances are you're facing one of life's most challenging moments – planning a funeral service for a loved one. This journey isn't easy, but you're not alone. Many families across Canada are navigating these same decisions, and we're here to help guide you through the process.

    The Changing Face of Remembrance

    Not too long ago, the idea of cremation was pretty uncommon in Canada. Most folks stuck with traditional burials, often because that's just what everyone did. But times change, and so do our ways of saying goodbye.

    These days, cremation has become the choice for about 73% of Canadians. That's nearly three out of four families opting for cremation over traditional burial. It's a big shift, and it's happened pretty quickly over the last few decades.

    Why Are So Many Families Choosing Cremation?

    There's no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are some reasons many families find cremation appealing:

    1. Flexibility: With cremation, you're not rushed to have a service right away. You can take time to gather family from far and wide, or even hold multiple small gatherings if that works better for everyone.
    2. Cost: Let's be honest – funerals can be expensive. Cremation often (but not always) costs less than a traditional burial, which can be a relief during an already stressful time. While burial costs can range from $6,000 to over $20,000, the average cost of a traditional cremation is around $6,800. For those seeking a more economical option, direct cremation (without a formal service) can be even more affordable.
    3. Personalization: Cremation opens up lots of options for remembering your loved one. You could scatter ashes in a meaningful place, keep them in a special urn at home, or even turn them into jewelry or art. It's all about what feels right for you and your family.
    4. Environmental Considerations: For some folks, especially in big cities, the idea of taking up less space is important. Cremation can feel like a more environmentally friendly choice. While cremation does produce some carbon dioxide, it generally has a lower overall carbon footprint than burial, which requires more resources for caskets, headstones, and ongoing cemetery maintenance.
    5. Changing Beliefs: As our communities become more diverse and less tied to certain religious traditions, cremation has become more widely accepted.

    Understanding Regional Differences

    While cremation is popular across Canada, it's not the same everywhere. For example, in Quebec, traditional burial is still more common than in other parts of the country. This is often due to strong religious traditions.

    In big cities, cremation tends to be more popular than in smaller towns or rural areas. This could be because of things like having more crematoriums nearby or just different cultural norms.

    Making Your Decision: What's Right for Your Family?

    Here's the most important thing to remember: there's no "right" or "wrong" choice. The best decision is the one that feels most meaningful to you and honors your loved one in a way that brings you comfort.

    If you're considering your options, here are a few things to think about:

    • What were your loved one's wishes? If they left instructions, that can guide your decision.
    • What feels right for your family? Consider your cultural and religious background, and what will bring the most comfort to those mourning.
    • What are your plans for remembrance? Think about whether you want a permanent place to visit, like a grave, or if you prefer the flexibility of keeping or scattering ashes.
    • What can you comfortably afford? While cost shouldn't be the only factor, it's okay to consider your budget.

    Looking Ahead

    As we look to the future, it seems likely that cremation will continue to be a popular choice. Experts think that by 2024, about 78% of Canadians might choose cremation. But remember, this doesn't mean it's the only option or the best choice for everyone.

    We're also seeing new and innovative ways to remember loved ones, whether through eco-friendly options, virtual memorials, or creative ways to preserve memories. The most important thing is finding a way to say goodbye that feels right for you and honors the person you've lost.

    We're Here to Help

    Planning a funeral is never easy, but you don't have to figure it all out alone. We're here to support you through every step of this process. Don't hesitate to reach out to us, day or night, with any questions or concerns you might have.

    Remember, there's no rush. Take the time you need to make choices that will bring you peace and comfort in the days, months, and years to come. Whatever you choose – whether it's cremation, traditional burial, or something else entirely – what matters most is that it helps you honour and remember your loved one in a way that feels meaningful to you.

    Wishing you comfort and peace during this difficult time.