Pioneers traveling across the plains buried their loved ones the best way they could. As towns developed, a craftsman could usually be found who could create a simple pine box to serve as a coffin for the deceased. Undertaking and furniture making seemed a natural combination. As the desire for more elaborate coffins evolved, they came to be known as caskets, after the decorative jewelry boxes of the era. Funeral directing came next as a full-time occupation.

Embalming is the process of exchanging natural body fluids for a chemical to make the body more "presentable" during the viewing. It does not preserve the body, nor is it necessary to keep germs from speading. In most cases, it is not required by law.

Non-declinable fee is mortuary talk for overhead. When you ask for the price list for a BASIC cremation or a BASIC funeral, the non-declinable fee is already included. Fancier services will have the non-declinable fee added in the total.

Basic cremation means picking up the body, registering the death certificate, placing the body in an appropiate container, the act of cremation, and returning the ashes (cremains) to the family.

Some funeral homes do not have their own crematoriums, so must charge an additional fee for the service.

Transportation MAY be included in the price, but some mortuaries charge up to $340 for the first 50 miles, PLUS up to $2 per mile additionally. CHECK FIRST.

Cemetery charges include the purchase of a plot for the grave site, opening and closing costs, and a marker or grave stone if desired. Some cemeteries offer "perpetual" care, for a price.

Pre-paying to a mortuary or insurance company should be thought through carefully. Know the conditions: What if you move elsewhere? What if you die while traveling? What if the company closes its doors? A more secure solution is to establish a "right of survivorship" bank or credit union account with someone you trust, so he or she can pay your final bills for you. Meanwhile, you will have the complete control of your own money.