Visiting the Crematorium: A Glimpse Behind the Scenes

Tucked quietly behind trees and businesses, the tan wood-frame building has housed Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services since 1994. Included within that organization is Society’s First Alternative Services, which provides services exclusively for Memorial Society members. Upon arrival, our 3 person Memorial Society team was welcomed inside by apprentice funeral director Jesus Hernandez, whose warm presence set the tone for the visit. We were soon joined by directors Tyrel Burton and Andre Carelse who guided our tour.
Just beyond the building entrance lies a large, open room often used for services and gatherings. A small showcase displays selected urns and keepsake items. We were then invited upstairs, where we discovered a surprisingly busy office space. Here, the administrative side of the cremation, burial and funeral service is handled by a dedicated team. It was a pleasure to finally meet staff in person – so often, we speak with our partners across the province by phone without ever putting faces to names.
Back on the ground floor, we passed the shelter, where individuals can remain safely until the time of cremation. It’s a quiet but essential part of supporting families.
And then, the heart of the operation: the crematorium itself. Stepping through the heavy door, we were met with a deep hum, and yes, it felt warmer. Looking around, the large room is clean, well lit and very organized, housing two large metal cremation chambers attended by a specialized technician. We learned that families can be involved throughout many aspects of the process, and that people may be cremated with personal items like flowers, photos, and other meaningful expressions of the person’s life, culture or religion.
The visit was informative, but more than that, it promoted a sense of confidence. This is a place of care, responsibility, and respect – and like all our partners across the province, one that quietly supports hundreds of Memorial Society members every year.
Our sincerest thanks to Tyrel, Andre and staff for being so gracious with their time.