marc.verbenkov

Greater Vancouver's cemeteries are facing a greater demand for burial plots due to rapid population growth, urbanization, and inefficient use of burial spaces. The lower mainland’s poor land management and planning have also left little to no space for cemeteries to expand. Cemeteries have also begun to focus more on profit, amplifying the shortage even more.

Perennial flowers that are hardy and don’t overrun or grow too tall are ideal for planting at gravesites. Coneflower, Black-eyed Susan, Blazing Star, Stonecrop, and Catmint are ideal choices. Annual flowers such as Forget-me-not, Sea Lavender, and Marigold carry emotional significance. If there’s lots of shade, planting Coral Bells, Bleeding Heart, Hosta, or Daylilies is a good idea. However, you should always check cemetery regulations about planting, as at Bakerview we only allow plants in approved vases.

Faith plays a central role in life, death, and the way families honour loved ones. Dedicated faith-based burial sections ensure traditions are respected, offering comfort and community. From Muslim burials aligned toward Mecca to Christian and Orthodox sections emphasizing unity and resurrection, these spaces preserve cultural and religious legacies. Choosing a final resting place that reflects one’s beliefs provides peace of mind and strengthens connections across generations.

According to religious guidelines, Christians are permitted to visit cemeteries, whereas Muslims are actively encouraged to do so. Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists are not keen to visit a grave but are permitted to. Jews are discouraged from visiting graves as it may take their focus away from life and God. In Canada, any people from any religion can visit most cemeteries and crematoriums of any faith.

Finding a cemetery that respects Muslim burial traditions while offering dedicated space can be challenging. Family legacies are central in Muslim culture, emphasizing unity and shared heritage. The Crescent Section provides a serene, faith-based resting place with graves oriented toward Mecca. Ensuring space for families and communities preserves traditions and offers peace of mind for future generations.

Mausoleums are architecturally impressive structures constructed to house the dead above ground and pay tribute to their legacies. Those entombed within are kept safe from the elements and decay through a controlled environment. A mausoleum can be built to either house bodies or cremated remains, or a mix of both. 

Cemetery plot reuse depends on ownership and bylaws, with some corporate cemeteries repurposing graves after a set period. Families seeking permanent burial plots should choose cemeteries that guarantee long-term resting places. Local, community-focused cemeteries prioritize trust, care, and family legacies. Planning ahead ensures loved ones remain undisturbed for generations.

Family legacy is important because it builds an individual's identity, purpose, and character through the family’s culture and tradition. Cemeteries play a vital role in the process as they are physical proof of the family tree, markers of family history, and anchor points for impactful events for the family. A family estate or mausoleum in a cemetery can preserve centuries of family history for future generations to learn from.

Graveyards and cemeteries serve similar purposes but have distinct histories. Graveyards are smaller, often attached to churches, while cemeteries are larger, independent burial grounds open to diverse communities. Cemeteries offer more space, inclusivity, and modern amenities, ensuring families can preserve legacies for generations. Understanding these differences helps in making informed burial choices.

Aside from cemetery-specific restrictions, Christianity allows Muslims to visit their cemeteries. Islam also allows Muslims to visit graveyards of other religions but not participate in the customs. Both religions permit visiting cemeteries so that followers can understand death and the afterlife.