Resources

We understand that dealing with the passing of a loved one can be challenging. To help you in these difficult times, we have put together some resources that we hope can help you, as well as answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

For Families

We understand that losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience, and in these moments, you need gentle guidance and clear information. Our guide walks you through the steps of cremation in a respectful, compassionate way. Rest assured that cremation is a dignified and environmentally friendly choice, and our experienced team and partner funeral directors will support you in making informed decisions that honour your loved one’s wishes. We follow strict identification and care procedures to ensure every step is handled with dignity so you can confidently choose our Toronto cremation services. By understanding the process ahead of time, Ontario families can focus on remembering and celebrating the life of the person they miss, knowing they are not alone in planning a farewell.

Grieving is a deeply personal journey, and our guide on navigating grief affirms that there is no single “right” way to cope. We encourage you to be patient with yourself and honour whatever feelings come—whether waves of sadness, anger, guilt or even relief—as all part of the healing process. You’ll find compassionate advice on caring for yourself: talking about your loss with understanding friends or family, allowing yourself time to heal, and seeking professional support if needed. We also want to highlight the importance of connection, suggesting grief support groups and counselling services that bring together people who share your experience. In our Ontario community, including Toronto, it helps you access local grief support and counselling options so no one has to face this journey alone.

The Bereavement Authority of Ontario (BAO) cares about grieving families and provides a helpful directory of support organizations. This resource connects you with grief counsellors, support groups, and other services available throughout Ontario. It’s designed to help you find the right grief support near you—whether that’s counselling, support groups, or community programs—while you navigate this difficult time. By linking families to trusted Ontario-wide resources, it complements the compassionate care we provide at North Toronto Crematorium. You can rely on these connections to guide you toward the support you need, offering comfort and understanding every step of the way.

Planning a funeral or cremation involves many important steps, and this authoritative BAO guide helps Ontario families confidently make those choices. It clearly explains your rights and responsibilities under Ontario law when arranging a funeral, burial or cremation so you know what to expect at each stage. With this knowledge, you can make informed decisions about services and costs, bringing peace of mind to you and your loved ones. Whether you are pre-planning or making arrangements now, the guide offers practical information on Ontario funeral planning and service options. Our goal is to help you feel supported and prepared, freeing you to focus on what matters most – honouring your loved one in a respectful, meaningful way.

Everyone’s experience of grief is unique, and this guide honours that truth from the very first page. It reminds you that grief goes beyond sadness and can touch every part of life—emotional, physical and cognitive—and that feeling a range of emotions is normal during this journey. By exploring different aspects of grief, we reassure families in the Greater Toronto Area that what they feel is valid and understandable. We cannot overstate that understanding the many ways grief can manifest helps us support one another through it. We encourage you to seek support and reminding you that you are not alone as you navigate this profoundly personal process.

We know how meaningful personal items can be, and we want to help you understand what can safely accompany your loved one through the cremation process. In general, objects made of natural materials—like cotton or wool clothing, flowers, letters, photographs (without glass frames), wooden keepsakes or religious items—are accepted into the cremation chamber. However, items containing hazardous materials or non-combustible parts (such as batteries, glass, ceramics, plastics, metal implants or synthetic fabrics) are strictly prohibited. These rules are in place to ensure everyone’s safety and to comply with Ontario’s cremation regulations. Our staff is here to explain these guidelines with care and suggest alternatives (for example, ways to keep treasured items outside the chamber). By following these precautions, we protect the environment and everyone working here while still honouring your loved one with the respect they deserve.

Graveyard of direct cremation

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, we offer witnessed cremations where families can witness the cremation process and participate if desired. Please contact us and we will connect you with our team and partners at Chapel Ridge Funeral Home to arrange a witnessed cremation.

There are many personal options for cremated remains. The remains can be kept in an urn, scattered in a meaningful location, placed in a columbarium, interred in a cemetery, or incorporated into keepsakes. Our staff can assist you with exploring various options that fit your needs.

North Toronto Crematorium follows a strict protocol and identification procedure to ensure all cremated remains are accurately identified and cared for throughout the whole process. We take all measures possible to document and care for your loved one. You are welcome to discuss our verification processes with our staff.

You can prepay your cremation.  Funds will be deposited into a trust account in accordance with FBCSA legislation and regulations and you lock in the cost at today’s price.  You can also prepay your funeral costs associated with cremation through a funeral home with a funeral director or Licensed Funeral Preplanner.

Certain items, such as jewelry or clothing, can be cremated with the body. However, all items placed in the cremation unit will be destroyed. There are many items that are not safe for cremation and cannot be allowed in the cremation unit. Please see our list of “Safe and Unsafe” items in our resources section for further clarity.

Yes, cremated remains can be shipped domestically and internationally. There are specific regulations and packaging requirements that must be followed. Our staff or funeral home staff can assist you with this process, including paperwork, scheduling and Consulate approvals.