Cremation Options
Cremation remains may be interred at any site available for traditional burials. In addition, niches for placing urns holding cremated remains are available at our new, open-air Lakeside Columbarium, or in the simple elegance of the Hotchkiss Chapel, which provides indoor comfort in an historic setting. Beginning this fall, Bellefontaine will also offer in-ground scattering in several natural settings within the cemetery. Finally, there are a limited number of cremation bench and boulder locations available, primarily located near our lakes and the stream that runs between them.
Hotchkiss Chapel and Columbarium
Hotchkiss Chapel, built in 1909, was named in honor of the designer and first superintendent of Bellefontaine Cemetery, Almerin Hotchkiss, who led Bellefontaine for 46 years.
A complete renovation of the historic chapel was completed in 2009, and a columbarium for cremated remains added.
The chapel is available for memorial services before or after an interment. Its intimate as well as other events.
The chapel columbarium has 665 wooden and glass niches designed to hold cremated remains.
Prices for niches range from $3,500 to $5,500, depending on wood vs. glass, and whether one or two persons. Our staff can assist you in selecting cremation urns for placement in the niche.
Lakeside Columbarium
Responding to the public’s increasing preference for cremation, Bellefontaine recently completed its second cremation offering: Lakeside Columbarium. The Columbarium, set between Cascade and Cypress Lakes, has a fountain, flowing pools and an arbor with benches for contemplation.
Niches are on the outside walls, overlooking the lakes, stream, and surrounding landscape.
The area surrounding Lakeside is the focus for design efforts of our newly completed Master Plan. Over the next year we will be adding more gardens, walks, and lake and stream overlooks.
Prices for niches at Lakeside are $3,500 for a single right of inurnment.
Other Cremation Options
Benches and Boulders: Bellefontaine also offers other options for those choosing cremation. For example, in our lakes and stream area, a small number of cremation boulders and benches are available.
In-ground Scattering: The upcoming addition of gardens and paths next year will create even more options, including in-ground scattering. (In Missouri, above ground scattering is not permitted, but the law allows in-ground scattering, which is substantially the same.)
“Green” Cremation Options
For those looking for more natural cremation options, in the near future we will also offer in-ground scattering in two new settings: Hope Hill Prairie and Evergreen Glen (left). These areas are being developed in accordance with Bellefontaine’s desire to be environmentally sensitive, and to offer options that meet the needs of our customers. For more information, see Green Burials.
