Cremation is the breakdown of the deceased body by fire and heat. This facility is called a crematorium and the device used is a retort. After the cremains are processed they are returned to the family. The family may bury, scatter, entomb or keep the ashes or they may be divided among family members if desired. Ashes may be present at a memorial ceremony or life celebration service.
Cremations require a signed permit by a coroner and signed family authorization.
Authorizations signed by the deceased in a prearranged form are not valid after death, but do serve to let the family know the wishes of the deceased. Cryonics is the act of placing the body or the brain of the deceased in a suspended animation through freezing. As of this time, this is still not a very popular method of disposition but is still an option. There are many facilities which handle cyonics and information is available. There is great variety of costs.