Cremations, Funerals, and Other Options for Saying Farewell

After the loss of a loved one, the next of kin are faced with many decisions about how to say goodbye. From funerals and cremations to graveside services and celebrations of life, the number of options can feel overwhelming—especially while grieving. In this blog, we’ll walk you through some of the choices available at Maple Ridge Funeral Chapel, to help guide you during this difficult time.

Traditional Funerals

A traditional funeral is the most familiar way to say farewell to a loved one. It typically includes:

• A viewing or visitation, where guests can pay their respects in person
• A formal ceremony, often led by an officiant, with readings, music, and tributes
• A committal service, where the deceased is either buried or cremated
• A reception, offering time to gather and reflect with family and friends

At Maple Ridge Funeral Chapel, our facilities include the 200-seat Osborn Chapel, on-site crematorium, and Elliott Hall for hosting a reception. We also facilitate services at other churches and venues.

Memorials and Celebrations of Life

A memorial or celebration of life typically takes place after the burial or cremation. These services are less formal than a traditional funeral and may or may not include religious elements. They allow families to focus on honoring the life well lived, often in a more personalized and uplifting setting.

When booking a memorial or celebration, you should allow for one hour in Osborn Chapel for the service and two hours in Elliott Hall for the reception.

Graveside Services

A graveside service is a simpler ceremony held at the burial site. It may involve prayers, readings, or a brief eulogy, and can be either religious or non-religious in nature. Graveside services can also be held for cremated remains, whether being buried in a cemetery plot or placed in a columbarium.

At Maple Ridge Funeral Chapel, we hold graveside services at every cemetery in the lower mainland, whether private or publicly owned.

Family Gathering with Cremation

This option provides families with a chance to say goodbye to your loved one in an intimate setting. A family gathering with cremation allows 10 or so friends and family members to pay their final respects for the deceased before cremation takes place.  The gathering takes place in our private, tastefully decorated room designed to feel like a comfortable living room, complete with its own restroom. Fresh water and light refreshments are available, creating a peaceful and intimate setting for a final goodbye.

Direct Cremation

Direct cremation is the simplest and most economical option. There are no services, viewings, or ceremonies—just the respectful cremation of the deceased, with the ashes returned to the family. As one of the few funeral homes with their own crematorium, you are not dealing with one company for paperwork, and another company for the cremation.

At Maple Ridge Funeral Chapel, we understand that each family’s needs and traditions are unique. Whether you're looking for a direct cremation or a traditional service, we are here to help you navigate your options with care, compassion, and professionalism.

Maple Ridge Funeral Chapel and Crematorium, based in Maple Ridge, BC, has been providing compassionate funeral services in the Lower Mainland for over 60 years. We have deep roots in the community and take great pride in caring ethics and exemplary service. If you have any questions about this article or would like to talk to us about funeral services, please call us at (604) 463-8121.