Can You Have a Funeral?

Cremation services in Saint Charles, MO, are becoming increasingly popular, yet many families are surprised to learn that a full funeral service is still possible when choosing cremation. In fact, the process can feel very similar to a traditional burial, with the same opportunity to honor your loved one, gather friends and family, and begin the healing process.

At Baue Funeral Homes, we guide families through cremation services while creating meaningful, personalized funeral and memorial experiences.

What is Cremation? 

First, let’s talk about what cremation is. For those who are unfamiliar, cremation is a form of body disposition that uses heat and reduces the body to its bone and mineral fragments. These fragments are what most people know as the ashes. 

While cremation was once less common, it’s now widely accepted across many communities and religious traditions. Families choose cremation for reasons ranging from simplicity to cost-effectiveness, while still maintaining the ability to honor their loved one with dignity and respect.

Learn more about Baue’s cremation services and how we support families every step of the way.

Can you have a Funeral with Cremation?

Yes! Families can hold funeral services, memorials, or even viewings and visitations, just as they would for a traditional burial. The body is cared for in the same way before the service, including embalming, professional cosmetology and preparation for a visitation and funeral services. You can also choose to have a funeral service without the deceased present, creating a memorial service where an urn or photos would be the main focal point rather than a casket.

How Funerals are Different with Cremations 

While most everything for the service is similar whether the body will be cremated or buried, there are some differences. For one, after the funeral service, the body will be taken to the crematory to be cremated rather that to a cemetery to be buried. The cremated remains will then be returned to the family to do with what they wish. 

For those who choose a traditional funeral service followed by cremation, we also offer ceremonial caskets, sometimes referred to as “rental caskets.” These caskets are made of wood or metal, and the interior lining is replaced for each use, making them a more cost-effective option than purchasing a traditional casket. After the service, the casket is returned, cleaned, and relined for future use. This approach allows families to hold a meaningful funeral without the added expense of buying a casket, helping to reduce overall funeral costs while still providing a dignified and respectful ceremony.

We strongly encourage permanent placement of an urn at a cemetery. When urns are kept at home indefinitely, they are often passed down to children or grandchildren, leaving loved ones unsure of what to do. By choosing permanent placement, you create a lasting tribute where family and friends can gather to remember and reflect, while also relieving future generations of difficult decisions. At our cemetery located on the grounds of our Baue Cave Springs location, St. Charles Memorial Gardens offers many cremation options.

Should You Have a Funeral? 

Many individuals and families may choose cremation for the simplicity of it. Because of this they may feel that holding a funeral service is not needed and look at it as just an added expense. However, funerals can be very important events to those who are left behind. They help people and the community come together and support one another in this very difficult time.

If you would like to know more about cremation services in Saint Charles County, please call 636-940-100 or email wecare@baue.com.