By Drake Smith, MSW,
So we scattered his ashes in the river, even though that’s illegal isn’t it?
I hear that question almost every day; people seem to think that scattering a loved one’s ashes (cremated remains) is illegal. So, if they do decide to scatter the ashes, they often sneak out to their loved one’s “favourite spot.” Once there, they anxiously – almost sheepishly — pour the ashes out, fearing that they might “get caught!”
That’s a shame.
There is nothing in the British Columbia funeral and cremation law that prohibits a person from scattering a loved one’s ashes, even in a river or on top of a mountain. Of course, an environmental group or government department might have some concerns about that!
I believe that when a loved one’s ashes are scattered it should be treated as a very important moment. After all it is, in effect, the final goodbye concerning the loved one’s cremated body.
So, if Murray says “I want to be scattered by my favourite fishing hole!” why shouldn’t his wife Alice, the kids and the grandchildren, along with other family and friends, feel comfortable heading out there on a nice sunny day?
Having said all that, there are laws against – pardon the expression – “littering.”
So, if you’re going to scatter ashes on someone else’s private property, or on government or crown land, you might be taken to task. But this would be the case whether you were leaving behind your prize geranium, a lovely piece of art or cremated remains. It would be courteous and important to get permission first. And some people (including some government officials) may say “No…you can’t do that there!” One would have to respect that, wouldn’t one?
My goal in writing these columns is to inform you about funerals and cremations – many people have questions or are curious about this topic but don’t know who to ask! In these columns we cover many topics in a light hearted but respectful manner, and I hope you’ll call me (250-377-8225) or send an email with YOUR question (DrakeSmith@NTFuneral.com).
Drake Smith, MSW, is the Owner and Funeral Director of North Thompson Funeral & Drake Cremation Services. With locations in downtown Kamloops (phone 250-377-8225), Clearwater (phone 250-674-3030), and Barriere (MaryAnn Shewchuk, Manager, phone 250-672-1999), his dedicated team has served people in the Kamloops area and the entire North Thompson Valley since 2005.
