FAQ :: La Paloma Crematorial Services :: Simple, Affordable, Natural

How do we make arrangements?
At La Paloma we want to make the arrangement process convenient for you during this stressful time. We have several simple methods of finalizing the arrangements. You can call our office at (702) 732-7070 to make an appointment or we can send you the necessary forms to complete. Just send us a note through the "Contact Us" page.

How do we make arrangements for a family member who lives in your service area if we live out of town?
If the person who is responsible for making arrangements is not in town we can send the necessary paperwork by fax to be completed or it can be filled out on line (forms). The paperwork will have to be signed by a notary and faxed or mailed back.

How many certified copies of the death certificate do we need?
You will need one certified copy for every legal transaction that will take place. In other words, you will need one for each life insurance policy, bank account, retirement fund, stocks, bonds, real estate, taxes, motor vehicle, and credit card accounts†that the deceased persons name is on. The general "rule of thumb" is 10 for the average size estate. Some people need more and some need less. If you are working with an attorney it is a good idea to seek their advice. Our packages include one certificate but we will be happy to order as many as you need for an additional cost.

How much do certified copies of the death certificates cost?
In Clark County, Nevada certificates cost $20.00 each. The death certificate is filed in the state county where the death occurs, regardless of where the person lived.

How long does it take to get the cremated remains and death certificates?
We can usually return the death certificates and cremated remains back to the family within 72 hours after the death certificate is signed.

How do we get the cremated remains and death certificates?
After we obtain death certificates and the cremation process is completed, we will contact you to make arrangements for you to pick up the remains and death certificate. The Premier Cremation package includes shipment of remains via USPS certified mail. The Paloma Cremation package includes either shipment of remains via USPS certified mail or home delivery of the remains within Clark County.

If we order an urn does it take longer to get the ashes back?
No, it usually does not take longer if an urn is ordered. The urn companies that we deal with are reputable companies who keep a significant number of their products in stock. They are set up to engrave products quickly and in most cases ship the same day that the order is placed.

If we don't order an urn what are the cremated remains returned in?
If an urn is not purchased, we return the cremated remains in a temporary container. This is a rectangular box with a snap lid.

What occurs during the cremation process?
In one to three hours, the cremation process accomplishes what nature takes several decades to do: return the human form to its most basic elements. The family chooses a container, either a casket or cardboard box in which the body must be placed for cremation. Any mechanical devices and implants such as pacemakers, must be removed before the cremation takes place.
A flame reaching temperatures of 1400 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit reduces the body (along with any combustible possessions left on or with the body) to bone particles and fragments. Evaporation and cooling is a process that takes about 3 hours. The fragments are then processed further to reduce them to uniform particles, with a total weight of 4 to 8 pounds. Throughout the cremation process, a carefully controlled labeling system ensures correct identification.

Can we witness the cremation?
For some religious and ethnic groups, being in attendance when the cremation takes places is important. Our new state of the art facility is set up to accommodate your wishes.

Do I have to make different funeral arrangements if I chose cremation?
It really depends entirely on how you wish to commemorate a life. One of the advantages of cremation is that it provides you with increased flexibility when you make your funeral and cemetery arrangements. You might, for example, choose to have a funeral service before the cremation; a memorial service at the time of cremation or after the cremation with the urn present; or a committal service at the final disposition of cremated remains. Funeral or memorial services can be held in a place of worship, a funeral home or in a crematorium chapel. We have a room that is available for small gatherings.

What can be done with the cremated remains?
With cremation, your options are numerous. The remains can be interred in a cemetery plot, i.e., earth burial, retained by a family member, (usually in an urn), scattered on private property, or at a place that was significant to the deceased. (It would always be advisable to check for local regulations regarding scattering in a public place.) Cremation is just one step in the commemorative process-- the preparation of the human remains for memorialization. Today, there are many different types of memorial options from which to choose. Memorialization is a time-honored tradition that has been practiced for centuries. A memorial serves as a tribute to a life lived and provides a focal point for remembrance, as well as a record for future generations. The type of memorial you choose is a personal decision. The limit is set only by your imagination.

When after death can a cremation take place?
Because cremation is an irreversible process and because the process itself will eliminate any ability to determine exact cause of death, the state of Nevada requires at least 72 hours.

Is any other preparation required prior to cremation?
It is essential that pacemakers and other medical devices be removed prior to cremation. These items may explode when subjected to high temperature which can be hazardous to crematorium staff and equipment. In addition, any special mementos, such as jewelry, will be destroyed during the cremation process. Anything you wish to keep should be removed by the funeral director before the casket or container is transferred to the crematorium.

Is it true that the bones are crushed after cremation? I've heard you don't get ashes back -- what do you get?
A complete cremation is a two-step process. Firstly, the actual exposure of the deceased to several hours of intense heat and flame; after which the remains are mostly ash except for certain bone fragments, then the entire remaining ash and fragment volume is gathered and run through a processor, creating a uniform powder-like texture.

Why is refrigeration of the remains necessary?
Due to the irreversible nature of cremation, most states require a waiting period before the actual process may begin. Refrigeration is the only alternative available, other than embalming, that will retard tissue decomposition. Refrigeration is a necessity that protects family and friends, the crematory operator and the general public from potential health hazards.

Is embalming necessary for cremation?
No.

Is a casket required?
No. Nevada state law however requires that the deceased be cremated in a combustible, leak proof, rigid, covered container. This does not need to be a casket as such. The type of casket or container selected is really a personal decision.

Are there special cremation caskets?
Caskets and containers are available in a wide variety of materials ranging from simple cardboard containers and pine boxes to beautifully handcrafted oak, maple or mahogany caskets. We have a variety of affordable cremation caskets to choose from.

What do we do when death occurs?
The first step is to call and inform us of the death. One of our licensed professionals will consult with you on your wishes for arrangements. At that time we will arrange for transfer from place of death to our facility. We will take care of completing and filing of all certificates, permits, and authorizations. We will also obtain certified copies of the death certificate. We will transfer your loved one to the crematory for the cremation. Nevada law requires a 72-hour waiting period after death before the cremation process can occur.

Is cremation less expensive?
Yes, cremation is normally the least expensive alternative for disposition of the body because the crematory fee is much lower than those charged by cemeteries for traditional burials.

What are my choices for memorial ceremonies?
Your options for memorial ceremonies are virtually unlimited. Today's personalized services can permit a more expressive sharing of feelings. And they may focus less on mourning the death than on celebrating the life that was lived. Elements of a ceremony may include a religious service, vocal or instrumental music (perhaps favorites of the deceased), and readings of eulogies, prayers or poems. Individuals may be invited to share something they recall or treasured about the deceased.

Can there be a funeral with cremation?
Yes. A family can decide where in the funeral process they want the cremation to occur. Cremation can occur immediately with no visitation or after a private visitation. The memorial service is a gathering which differs from a funeral only in that the body is not present. Clergy may be present to contribute support if requested.

Is cremation an option for Catholics?
Yes. The Vatican now permits funerals in the United States to have Masses with cremated remains present in a "worthy vessel" placed on a table and must be covered with a pall. Words said in a blessing or dismissal are changed from "body" to "earthly remains."

Do people choose cremation only to save money?
While some people select cremation for economy, many choose this option for other reasons. The simplicity and dignity of cremation, environmental concerns, and the flexibility cremation affords in ceremony planning and final disposition all add to its increasing popularity.