Cremation Services

At Van Hoe Funeral Home, we understand that cremation is a meaningful choice for many families. We are committed to providing personalized cremation services that honor the unique life and legacy of each loved one. We believe strongly in making cremation services affordable and accessible, which is why we offer competitive pricing and flexible payment options. Our compassionate staff is here to support families every step of the way and help create a meaningful and personalized tribute to their loved one.

Common Questions

Does cremation take place right away after our loved one is brought into your care?
No. Before a cremation can occur, several legal steps must be completed. These include obtaining signed authorization from the legal next of kin, securing a cremation permit from the county coroner or medical examiner, and completing the necessary contractual documents with the person responsible for the arrangements. Cremation cannot begin until all approvals are in place.

Can a viewing take place after the funeral home receives our loved one
Yes. Families may choose a direct cremation with a private family viewing, which includes a cremation container suitable for viewing, minimal preparation, and a 20-minute visitation for up to 10 family members. If the viewing will occur more than 48 hours after the passing, embalming may be recommended.

Traditional cremation services are also available. These include embalming and allow for a public visitation at the funeral home or a place of worship, followed by a funeral service, memorial service, or celebration of life. A rental casket or cremation-friendly casket is often used for this type of service.

What is direct cremation?
Direct cremation—also called simple or basic cremation—takes place once all required documents and legal approvals are completed. There is no ceremony or viewing. The cremated remains are returned directly to the family after the process is finished.
What can be done with cremated remains?
Families have several meaningful options
Many choose an urn to hold or display the remains, although an urn is not always required
Cremated remains may be buried or placed in a columbarium niche at a cemetery. Veterans, spouses, and dependent children may qualify for placement in a National Cemetery at no cost—please speak with a funeral director for details
Keepsake options such as smaller urns, jewelry, or fingerprint pieces allow multiple family members to have a portion of the remains
Some families choose alternatives such as Parting Stones (solidified remains), memorial diamonds created from ashes or hair, or, in rare cases, launching remains into space.
Why do some families choose cemetery placement for cremated remains?
A cemetery provides a permanent place for loved ones to visit, reflect, and remember. Many families appreciate having a dedicated and protected final resting place, and friends or future generations may visit as well.
Do cremated remains have to be placed in a vault?
Not necessarily. While many cemeteries require cremated remains to be placed in a durable, recoverable container, an urn vault is not always required. Some urns are designed to meet cemetery requirements without an additional vault. Requirements vary by cemetery, so it is best to consult your funeral home or cemetery.
What is a cremation container?
Illinois law requires that every individual being cremated be placed in a rigid, appropriate cremation container. These containers range from reinforced fiberboard to options suitable for viewing. Additional fees may apply depending on the type of container selected.
Do you own your own crematory
Yes. We share ownership of Black Hawk Crematory in Rock Island, Illinois. This partnership allows us to care for your loved one throughout the entire process—from their initial transfer to the return of their cremated remains or their placement at a cemetery. Not all funeral homes have access to their own crematory, and we are proud to offer this level of service.
Do you offer pet cremation?
Yes. Pet cremation services are available through our Black Hawk Pet Crematory location in Rock Island, Illinois. Please visit their website for more information.

Many families find meaning and beauty in a traditional funeral service. With a traditional service combined with cremation, you can still choose to have a final viewing, visitation or wake, and a funeral service. However instead of in-ground burial, the funeral will be followed by cremation. Depending on your wishes, the cremated remains may be either returned to your family for storage in an urn, scattered, or interred in a columbarium. This option will include fees for the funeral services as well as the fees associated with the cremation itself.