FAQ's
Here are a few common questions:
What services do you offer?
Family owned Bay Gardens understands the importance of celebrating and creating a tribute to life. We offer one solution with personalized services in a respectful, comforting environment. Our licensed professional team has been serving the community for over 70 years and we extend our commitment of unparalleled customer service to you and your family.
Do I need the services of a Funeral Home?
In Ontario, you require a Funeral Home or licensed operator to transfer the decedent and to complete the necessary paperwork. A full service Funeral Home will provide many options such as: chapel services, burial, cremation, monuments and receptions that will become your celebration of life.
Is a funeral or memorial service always held in a Funeral Home or place of worship?
Today’s families bring new values, preferences, opinions and creativity that are changing the world of funeral service. Our team will guide you through the options that best suit your family and friends. From traditional to contemporary, we will ensure you have a personalized tribute.
What if we want something less formal than a funeral or memorial service?
We are here to facilitate your vision. If you prefer a catered reception for family and friends instead of a formal service, we can make those arrangements. Cultural and personal preferences can easily be satisfied through our wide range of catering and menu options. Our banquet halls can seat large groups of up to 200 which include guest parking with no time restrictions . As a form of introduction, visit our home page and watch the introductory video.
Do clergy always officiate at a funeral service?
Not in every case. Some families know a priest or minister however, many families choose to use a trained professional called a "celebrant." Celebrants are typically non-denominational and specialize in officiating memorial or funeral services. At Bay Gardens, we are privileged to be the only funeral home in the Burlington and Hamilton area to employ a licensed, in-house celebrant, Lindsay Jones. Lindsay works closely with family members to create unique and personalized funeral celebrations that reflect the personality and life of your loved one.
What About After Care Services?
Bay Gardens offers complimentary assistance surrounding the closing of an estate. These include helping you with CPP and other government-related documentation. An after service appointment will provide you with all the details in a comforting, relaxed environment.
If my family knows I want cremation, is that all I need to do in advance?
You may choose to pre-plan your arrangements based on your personal preferences. This will minimize stress at the time of grief for friends and family while streamlining the process. Meeting with one of our Pre-Planning Advisors will give you an opportunity to share the details with your family so they too are familiar with your wishes.
How can I best shop and compare funeral service providers?
Every funeral home is obligated to provide a price list upon request and we suggest dropping in to your area funeral homes to experience for yourself their level of service.
What happens when someone dies away from home?
If you do not have pre-planned arrangements at the time of death, then a call to your funeral home of choice is needed to make the necessary arrangements to transfer the deceased. If you have pre-paid for your funeral, travel insurance that covers not only you, but also your decedents may be included. Ask about this cost effective option available when finalizing your pre-planning arrangements.
Do I still need a service if I donate my body to medical education or science?
Included in the McMaster Bequeathal Program is a yearly memorial service at the university, however, families and friends may feel the need for something more personal in the way of a funeral or memorial service. Bayview Cemetery and Bay Gardens Funeral Home are pleased to help with such arrangements. We are also the home of the bequeathal programs crematorium and interment.
Feel free to reach out with any additional questions or concerns. A member of our professional team will return your call as soon as possible.