Although R. Bernard Funeral Services owns and operates it's own on-site crematory, we have state and federal guidelines that we have to comply with.
STEP 1: The next of kin of the deceased (ex: spouse, parent, etc.) has to complete an Authorization For Cremation and Disposition of Remains Form. ALL parties must sign the form before the cremation process can begin (EX. if the deceased have five children, ALL children must sign the form; EX. if the deceased has a spouse and is not legally divorced, the spouse must STILL sign before the cremation process can begin.)
STEP 2: The pronouncing physician has to complete and sign a form stating the cause of death, license number, and doctor's name. The doctor then has to send the form to the Forensic's office for approval of the cremation process. R. Bernard Funeral Services has NO CONTROL over the time frame that the physician will sign this form.
Step 3: Medical Examiner's office will review the form from the doctor (if approved) and will send the form to the Health Department for approval.
Step 4: The Health Department will review the form from the Medical Examiner's office. Once approved by the Heath Department, they will contact R. Bernard Funeral Services and give us permission to cremate your loved one.