Q1: I just want a low price basic cremation or burial without a memorial service; how much will it cost?

As of 3/1/13 we have complete cremations from $595 and complete burials from $1495. Our price is updated monthly based on research of local alternative funeral providers and our low price guarantee.

Q2: How can you serve a family well at these prices when others charge two or three times these amounts?

We focus on simpler options and help you create your own memorial experience, eliminating the costs of a large staff, chapel, vehicles, etc. We are a fully licensed local family business and take pride in being efficient without sacrificing quality and customer service.

Q3: What is included in the complete basic cremation or burial price? Are there other costs?

The price includes transferring your loved one to our secure local facility, holding them till the burial or cremation, notifying Social Security, filing the death certificate and permit, courtesy obituary notice, cremation or burial of the person, and a basic casket or urn box. We have other services and products you may choose, but no additional charges are required or added on later.

Q4. How do we tell you about a death? When should we call you? Are you available any time?

We are available 24 hours day, 7 days a week at 360-734-7073. We don’t need paperwork in advance, although we do suggest it. When a death occurs, we will decide together the best time to transfer someone into our care. It is good to give caregivers our number too.

Q5. Where will you take my family member? How is the transfer done? Can I see them again?

We carefully transfer your loved one to a temperature controlled locked room in Ferndale, WA adjacent to the crematory. We use an adjustable covered cot with wheels which we load into an unmarked mini-van. We can make arrangements for viewing at a later time.

Q6. What happens next? Do I meet with someone at your office and what happens at that meeting?

We meet with family members and friends as soon as we can. We typically do this in person but can also work with you via phone, fax, and email. We answer all your questions, and guide you through your decisions; obituaries, merchandise, death certificates, memorial gatherings, and cemetery plans. We also finalize paperwork and complete the financial arrangements with you.

Q7. When does the cremation or burial happen? How long does it take to get ashes/cremains back?

Cremations or burials are scheduled when all authorizations and a death certificate are approved. It normally takes 7-10 business days after a death to receive the cremated remains or about a week from the time of death to a burial.

Q8. What paperwork is required for a cremation or burial? Who can sign the cremation authorization?

We don’t need paperwork or payment in advance, but we do recommend it. The forms can be downloaded from our website. Cremations and burials require written authorizations following specific laws. The cremation authorization can be signed by a person on their own behalf or someone with power-of-attorney prior to death. After death it may be signed by certain family members or an executor.

Q9. How do I get death certificates? How many do I need?

Certified death certificates are available approximately one week after death and cost $20 each. We can help you decide how many you need and explain the application process and options to you.

Q10. How and when do we pay you? Can I pay in advance for what we will need?

We request payment only after we have signed a contract with you. We can estimate future costs and help you set aside those funds. We can also accept pre-paid funeral plan funds that you have set up in the past, regardless of where that was done.

What if I have more questions? How do we contact you? Where can we meet with you?

Your questions are important and you are always welcome to contact us for yourself, a friend, or a family member. We can meet you at our office or another location that is suitable for you. See the information below or scan the QR code to go directly to our website.

Other Helpful Resources

Whatcom County Cemetery Guide