Cremation Services
in Tustin, CA
Cremation Options and Service Types
The following are common types of cremation services chosen by the families we serve. Each can be tailored to your preferences. Services can be held over multiple days or completed in a single day.
Cremation with a Traditional Viewing
Families who choose cremation can still have a traditional viewing or visitation with the body present before the cremation takes place. This gives loved ones the opportunity to say goodbye in person, hold a formal service, and then proceed with cremation afterward. The viewing can take place at Saddleback Chapel, at a church, or at another venue.
Cremation with a Memorial Service
A memorial service is held after the cremation has taken place, without the body present. This is one of the most popular options for families choosing cremation because it provides flexibility in timing, venue, and format. Memorial services can be held days, weeks, or even months after the cremation, giving family members time to travel and plan.
Memorial services can take place at our chapel, a church or place of worship, a restaurant, a reception center, a family home, or any venue that holds meaning for your family.
Cremation with a Church Ceremony
If your loved one had a connection to a local congregation, a church service followed by cremation offers a way to honor both their faith and their wishes. We coordinate with churches and places of worship throughout Orange County, managing all logistics so your family can focus on the service itself.
Private Family Goodbye Followed by Cremation
Some families prefer a brief, private gathering with immediate family members before the cremation takes place. This option allows for a personal moment of closure without the formality of a larger public service. A memorial service or celebration of life can be planned for a later date if desired.
Direct Cremation
Direct cremation is the simplest and most affordable cremation option. The cremation takes place without a preceding viewing or funeral service. Families typically receive the cremated remains within 5 to 10 business days and may choose to hold a memorial service, scattering ceremony, or private gathering at a later time.
Direct cremation is an appropriate choice for families who prefer simplicity, who plan to hold a separate memorial event, or who have budget considerations. It does not mean that a life goes uncelebrated. Many families who choose direct cremation plan meaningful services in their own way and on their own timeline.
Cremation Followed by Burial or Interment
Cremated remains can be buried in a cemetery, placed in a columbarium niche, or interred in a family plot. This option combines the flexibility of cremation with a permanent resting place that family members can visit. Many cemeteries in Orange County offer dedicated sections for cremation burial, and some allow interment of cremated remains in existing family plots.
What to Do with Cremated Remains
One of the advantages of cremation is the range of options available for the final disposition of the remains. Families are not limited to a single choice, and in many cases, remains can be divided among family members. Here are the most common options:
- Cemetery Burial. Cremated remains can be buried in a standard grave, a cremation-specific plot, or an existing family plot at cemeteries throughout Orange County.
- Columbarium Niche. A columbarium is a structure designed to hold urns in individual niches. Many cemeteries and churches offer columbarium options.
- Scattering. California law permits scattering of cremated remains at sea (at least 500 yards from shore), on private property with owner permission, or in designated scattering areas at certain cemeteries and memorial parks.
- Home Display. Many families choose to keep the cremated remains at home in a decorative urn, on a mantel, or in a special location.
- Keepsake Urns and Memorial Jewelry. A small portion of the cremated remains can be placed in a miniature keepsake urn or a piece of memorial jewelry, allowing multiple family members to carry a remembrance.
- Green Burial. Eco-friendly burial of cremated remains is available at select cemeteries that follow green burial practices, including hand-dug graves and natural markers.
Personalizing a Cremation Service
Every personalization option available for a traditional funeral is also available for a cremation service. Memory tables, tribute videos, live streaming, personalized music, celebrant services, and reception coordination can all be incorporated into a cremation service or memorial ceremony.
Choosing a Service Venue
Cremation services and memorial ceremonies can be held at a variety of locations:
- Saddleback Chapel. Our chapel provides comfortable seating, professional audio/video equipment, and a reverent atmosphere for services of any size.
- Church or Place of Worship. We coordinate with congregations of all denominations throughout Orange County.
- Graveside or Columbarium. A committal service at the cemetery where the cremated remains will be interred.
- Off-Site Venue. Restaurants, reception centers, country clubs, hotel banquet rooms, parks, or private homes.
What Communities Does Saddleback Chapel Serve for Cremation?
Saddleback Chapel Mortuary provides cremation services to families in Tustin, Santa Ana, Irvine, Orange, Anaheim, Costa Mesa, Garden Grove, Fountain Valley, Westminster, Newport Beach, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, and surrounding communities across Orange County, CA.
Saddleback Chapel Mortuary has provided cremation services to families in Tustin and Orange County since 1963. As an independent, family-owned funeral home and member of Selected Independent Funeral Homes, we guide families through cremation decisions with transparency, professionalism, and respect.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cremation
How much does cremation cost in Tustin, CA?
Cremation costs vary depending on the type of service you choose. Direct cremation is the most affordable option. Cremation with a viewing, memorial service, or celebration of life will include additional fees for facility use, professional services, and any merchandise selected. Saddleback Chapel Mortuary provides transparent pricing. View our General Price List on the pricing page or call (714) 544-1450.
Can I still have a funeral service if I choose cremation?
Yes. Cremation does not eliminate the option of holding a service. You can have a traditional viewing before the cremation, a memorial service after, a church ceremony, a celebration of life at an off-site venue, or any combination. Many families choose cremation specifically because it provides more flexibility in planning.
How long does the cremation process take?
The cremation process itself typically takes 2 to 3 hours. However, the timeline from the time of death to the return of cremated remains to the family depends on several factors, including the completion of required permits and authorizations, whether a viewing or service is held beforehand, and scheduling. In most cases, families receive the cremated remains within 5 to 10 business days.
Can cremated remains be divided among family members?
Yes. Cremated remains can be placed in multiple keepsake urns or memorial jewelry pieces so that each family member has a personal remembrance. We can help you select appropriate keepsake options from our merchandise collection.
Is cremation accepted by all religions?
Most major religions now accept or permit cremation, including Catholicism (since 1963), most Protestant denominations, Hinduism, Buddhism, and others. Some faiths, including Islam, Orthodox Judaism, and Eastern Orthodoxy, generally do not permit cremation. Our funeral directors can help you understand how cremation fits within your faith tradition.
Where can I scatter cremated remains in California?
California law allows scattering of cremated remains at sea (at least 500 yards offshore), on private land with the owner’s written permission, or in dedicated scattering gardens at participating cemeteries and memorial parks. Scattering is not permitted on public land without authorization. Our team can help you understand your options and any local regulations.
We Are Here to Help You Through This Decision
Choosing between cremation and burial, and deciding on the right type of service, are deeply personal decisions. The funeral directors at Saddleback Chapel Mortuary will answer your questions, explain your options, and support you through every step. Call us at (714) 544-1450 or visit us at 220 East Main Street, Tustin, CA 92780. We are available 24 hours a day, every day.