Selecting the final resting place for yourself or your loved one is an important task that should not be taken lightly. Every cemetery is unique, so it is important to consider all of the following factors when selecting one.
Selecting the final resting place for yourself or your loved one is an important task that should not be taken lightly. Every cemetery is unique, so it is important to consider all of the following factors when selecting one.
There are several different kinds of cemeteries that each cater to different groups. Public cemeteries are the most common and are for profit and independently or corporately owned. Religious cemeteries are often non-profit and owned by a church or religious sector. A veteran’s cemetery is government owned and reserved for veterans and current military members. Finally, green cemeteries are environmentally friendly ones that offer green burial services.
Every cemetery has their own rules and policies that must be followed. Before purchasing a plot, you should inquire about these policies. Most cemeteries have certain restrictions on types of flowers, the size of tombstones or markers, religious requirements, placement of items around the tombstone, and much more.
It’s important to understand the cost of a plot in the cemetery before you make your decision. Some cemeteries offer burial or entombment in a mausoleum which can be drastically different in prices. By asking what the final cost for burial and what is included with it, you can decide if the cemetery offers enough value for the price. Some cemeteries offer discounts to certain funeral homes, so it helps to ask if there are any available.
You should also consider the different kinds of plots available. Many often offer couples or family plots so that other members of the family can be buried next to their loved ones. Before you purchase a plot, you should consider whether you need a single plot or a family one. It’s also important to visit the prospective plot to see where it is in the cemetery. If you plan to revisit the grave, you want to make sure that it offers a beautiful location and is easily accessible for years to come. For example, If the spouse of the deceased is elderly, they may not want to have to climb a hill to visit the deceased. Factors like this should all be considered.
If you are interested in learning more about local Medicine Hat cemeteries, we have listed three cemeteries we regularly work with below. Our staff would be happy to answer any questions you may have and discuss different cemetery options.
Click on any image for a larger view of the cemetery.
HILLSIDE CEMETERY
SAAMIS PRAIRIE VIEW CEMETERY
Saamis Prairie View Cemetery formerly known as Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens was established in 1954. In 1965, Chapel Lawn was abandoned by the previous owners and an administrator was appointed by the Alberta Government. The perpetual care funds were exhausted in 1972 and the cemetery became the sole liability of the Province to maintain. In 1990, Chapel Lawn became the responsibility of Consumer and Corporate Affairs. In March 1996, CGRM Holdings Ltd. acquired the cemetery. Subsequently, the name was changed to Saamis Prairie View Cemetery, an underground watering system has been installed, roads now paved, upright monuments are now permitted, the sale of plots re-established, and most importantly a perpetual care fund has been established to provide for the on-going maintenance of the cemetery in perpetuity. Presently, a 1000 burials have taken place and over 10,000 plots remain available for burial. Special sections for Roman Catholic, Veterans, Cremation and a Fourth Columbaria have been established.