Cremation Services

Cremation Explanations

Cremation is a method of final disposition where the deceased’s remains are reduced by intense heat in a device called a "retort" until only bone fragment is left. The bone fragments are processed into smaller pieces called cremains. Cremains may be buried in the ground, entombed in a mausoleum, scattered or kept by a family member/ members.


Cremation Options

As with traditional burials, a family choosing cremation has many ways to celebrate their loved one’s life. Many families choose services, visitations and gatherings that are identical to those of traditional services. Our staff can explain choices and show examples of how cremation can be personalized to fit your needs.

The choice of cremation or burial for your deceased loved one is a very personal one based on a variety of factors including personal, religious or societal beliefs. In some cases, preferences are known before death, but in others, family members must make this decision.

When making cremation arrangements, keep in mind, you have unlimited options for memorialization. The most important thing is to create a farewell event that is meaningful and satisfying to you and others who will participate. Remember, there is no "standard" cremation arrangement. We have the experience to assist you in developing a customized cremation service that is "just right" for you and your family.

Many choices for a cremation services are available to fit each individuals needs. The staff at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. is committed to providing the service you desire.

Traditional Funeral Service with Cremation

Traditional services following with cremation allows for viewing of the loved one at the funeral home chapel or a place of worship. Caskets are specifically designed for the visitation, the funeral service and cremation. Services are arranged and conducted by a licensed and trained funeral director. After the funeral service, cremation takes place, therefore, rather than going to the cemetery the deceased would be taken to the crematory. Once the cremation is complete, the remains are placed in an urn. A public or private service may be arranged for the final placement of the cremated remains of the loved one.

Memorial Service and Cremation

During a memorial service no public viewing will take place. The personnel at Sytsema’s can make a cremation ceremony as memorable as a traditional means of service through our personalization options. We provide a showing of the urn and although a traditional viewing of the deceased is absent, we assist you in capturing the essence of the loved one's life through photographs, poems, flowers, and other memorabilia. A memorial service is performed at the chapel or the family's place of worship. The remains are then given to the family for the final disposition. Our funeral staff is here to guide throughout the disposition of the remains.

Direct Cremation

If no services are desired, the staff at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. will perform the requested service with the utmost professionalism and dignity.


Witness Cremation

Many families want to witness the cremation. This may be for religious and cultural reasons, or to say a final goodbye. Others may do it for the more practical reason of assurance and peace of mind that their loved one is cared for properly and respectfully. We offer this option to you and encourage you to do so.

Call us today to explore cremation options, and the many creative ways you can memorialize a loved one either before, or after the cremation has occurred.

However you choose to celebrate the life and wishes of your loved one, we can help you create a memorial service that captures the essence of a life richly lived.