Cremation is the process of reducing the body to bone and skeletal fragments through the use of intense heat and flame. Upon completion of the cremation and a subsequent cooling period, the cremated remains (skeletal framework) are removed from the chamber and then processed—reduced into a smaller consistency.
By state statute, cremation takes place after a 24-hour waiting period, after release by the county medical examiner is received, and all legal authorizations are completed by the person(s) with legal authority. Medical devices—pacemakers, prostheses, radioactive implants, etc.—must be removed as they pose a serious hazard when subjected to intense heat or flame.
Cremation is a private, personal service. Dokken-Nelson Funeral Service & Crematory operates its own on-site crematory that is fully-licensed by the State of Montana. Cremation takes place at our facility, and is performed under our strict supervision and in accordance with professional standards and state regulations.