Central Michigan Crematory - Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many cremations has CMC performed?
Over 51,000 since 1983

2. Do you have a scattering service?
No.

3. Do you have to be in a casket to be cremated?
No, but you must be a steady rigid container.

4. How hot does the cremation unit get during the process?
The unit reaches about 1600 degrees Fahrenheit.

5. How long does the entire process take?
Around 3 hours from start to finish, depending on body size, type of container, and temperature of the unit.

6. How can I be sure I get the correct remains?
CMC goes through a rigorous process to make sure you receive the correct remains. Each set of remains comes with its own special ID tag, which corresponds to records on hand at the facility.

7. Can I watch the process?
Yes, you may stay for as long as you would like at either of the CMC locations in Battle Creek or Mason, Michigan.

8. How long until I receive the cremated remains?
If all the required paper work is completed, you will normally receive remains the next day. If all the proper paperwork is in place, cremations are performed and the cremated remains are generally returned to the funeral home within 24 hours.

9. What happens to medical implants/artificial joints/gold fillings and other such items?
If they are not consumed by the flame, they are disposed of properly. Gold fillings are unrecognizable and cannot be recovered.

10. Is embalming required?
No, embalming is not required for cremation in the state of Michigan.

11. Do you cremate humans and pets in the same machine?
No, we have separate units for humans and pets.