Key Factors in Choosing a Cemetery for Your Loved Ones

The death of a loved one is a difficult time in anyone’s life. In addition to the emotional pain and stress, there are practical decisions that must be made. One of the most important decisions is where your loved one will be laid to rest. Choosing the right cemetery is crucial, as it will be a place of memorialization for years to come. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right cemetery for your loved one.

Location One of the first things to consider is location. Choosing a cemetery close to where the deceased lived or where most of their family resides can make it easier for loved ones to visit and pay their respects. It’s important to consider travel distance for family and friends who will want to visit the grave site in the future. Additionally, check with the cemetery about their hours of operation to ensure they are convenient for visitors.

If the deceased was religious, it may be important to choose a cemetery affiliated with their faith. Different cemeteries may have different rules and restrictions about the types of memorials or funeral services that are allowed, so it’s important to check with the cemetery staff to ensure that their policies align with your family’s wishes.

There are two main types of cemeteries: public and private. Public cemeteries are owned and operated by the government, while private cemeteries are owned and operated by private individuals or organizations. Public cemeteries tend to be less expensive and may have more restrictions on the types of memorials that can be placed, while private cemeteries may offer more flexibility but can also be more expensive. Additionally, some cemeteries are designated for specific purposes such as veterans or pet burial. It’s important to choose the right type of cemetery based on your loved one’s wishes and your family’s needs.

Cemetery costs can vary widely depending on location, type of cemetery, and the services provided. When choosing a cemetery, it’s important to ask for a price list and compare costs between different cemeteries. Don’t forget to factor in costs for burial plots, grave markers, and other associated expenses. It’s important to budget accordingly to avoid financial stress during an already difficult time.

Another factor to consider is the maintenance of the cemetery. A well-maintained cemetery provides a peaceful and respectful final resting place for your loved one. Check with the cemetery staff about their maintenance schedule and policies. Are there groundskeepers who maintain the cemetery? How often are the gravesites tended to? How do they handle landscaping and upkeep of the cemetery?

Additionally, it’s important to consider the overall appearance of the cemetery. Is it clean and well-maintained? Are there areas that appear neglected or poorly cared for? A cemetery that is not well-maintained may not provide the proper level of respect and care that your loved one deserves.

Different cemeteries may offer different services and amenities. Some may offer on-site funeral services, while others may have a chapel for services. Others may offer floral services or other memorial options. It’s important to consider what services and amenities are important to you and your family.

When choosing a cemetery, it’s important to consider the ease of access and availability of parking. Is the cemetery easily accessible by car or public transportation? Are there ample parking spaces for visitors? If you have elderly or disabled family members who will be visiting, it’s important to choose a cemetery that is easily accessible and has adequate parking options.

Choosing the right cemetery for your loved one is a personal decision that should be based on a variety of factors. By considering these factors and taking the time to research and visit different cemeteries, you can find the perfect final resting place for your loved one. Remember that choosing the right cemetery is an important decision, but it’s just one step in the process of grieving and honoring your loved one. Allow yourself and your family time to process and heal during this difficult time.

At Bakerview Memorial Cemetery, while located in Langley, we are committed to supporting the entire lower mainland including the City of Vancouver itself.

Bakerview Memorial Cemetery is a beautiful and serene place to lay your loved one to rest. We offer a variety of services and amenities to meet your needs, including traditional ground burials, mausoleum entombment, and cremation interment. Our options are affordable, and because we are a new cemetery we are the only cemetery that can offer entire family estates. We also have memorialization services, such as headstones, monuments, urns, and soon to be available digital options. Our experienced staff is dedicated to providing you with the utmost respect and care during this difficult time, and are available to answer any question you may have.

Please contact us today to learn more about the cemetery, our services, or to schedule a tour.