The staff at McCall’s know that dealing with the death of a loved one can be the most difficult period of one’s life. We realize that everyone grieves differently, as no two people are the same. If you are in need of personal counseling please contact us directly and we will refer you to qualified professionals.
- Why choose burial?
Cultural and religious beliefs are, of course, important factors for those who choose burial. Beyond these, perhaps the most compelling reason to consider it is so loved ones have a permanent place to visit. Knowing there will always be access to a site in a cemetery or mausoleum offers great comfort to family and friends.
- Are there different types of burial?
Yes. Families have the option of a traditional earth burial or entombment in a mausoleum. For those concerned with sustainability and lessening their environmental footprint, an additional choice is green burial (see below).
- What is green burial?
Green burial is an increasingly popular choice and the most natural one. All materials used—from the casket to the dressing—are biodegradable and, along with the body, are intended to return to the earth and nurture new life. There is no marker left on the gravesite and native flora is planted to promote environmental health. Remembrance plaques can be mounted on boulders that surround the green burial area.
- What types of funeral or memorial services are appropriate with burial?
Whether dictated by family tradition or religious belief, the choice of service is very personal. For some it is a multi-step process—viewing, church service, procession, burial—for others a simple graveside memorial. We will assist you in tailoring the service to your specifications.
- How do I find a burial site?
Our funeral directors will assist you in selecting an appropriate burial site in Greater Victoria, on the Gulf Islands, or elsewhere in British Columbia. The prices of burial plots vary depending on which cemetery you select.
- What is Cremation?
Cremation is the process of reducing the body to bone fragments through the application of extreme heat and flame. After the process is complete, the remaining fragments are removed and processed into a coarse sand-like consistency, often referred to as ash.
- What happens after the cremation process?
Materials that are not consumed, such as metal from cremation containers and caskets, hip joints, and other inorganic material are separated and removed. Gold and silver from jewellery and dental work melt under the extreme heat and are non-recoverable; thus they remain commingled with the cremated remains. Once they have cooled, the cremated remains are placed into a temporary container or urn, selected by the family.
