Question 1

What should I know when comparing cremation or aquamation providers?

Accepted Answer

When comparing providers, the most important factor is not price. It is what each business is legally licensed to do. In Ontario, funeral service providers are regulated under the Funeral, Burial and Cremation Services Act. Licensing determines what services a business can offer and how much involvement they can have in your loved one’s care. Understanding this difference ensures you make an informed decision for your family.

Question 2

What is a Funeral Establishment Class 1, and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

A Funeral Establishment Class 1, like McCormack Aquamation, Burial & Cremation Services, is licensed to provide full funeral and disposition services. This includes the following:
 
Arranging and directing services
Preparing and caring for the deceased
Offering visitation or identification
Completing cremation or aquamation services
 
These establishments are authorized to manage the entire process from beginning to end, ensuring continuity of care. When you choose a Funeral Establishment Class 1, you are working directly with the team who will care for your loved one and perform the service on site.

Question 3

What is a Transfer Service Class 1 (TS1)?

Accepted Answer

A Transfer Service Class 1 holds a transportation-focused licence. This means they can do the following:
 
Transfer the deceased
Provide basic handling and coordination
Deliver the deceased to another facility
 
They cannot do the following:
Prepare the body
Offer visitations or viewings
Arrange or conduct funeral services
Perform cremation or aquamation themselves
 
Because of these limitations, transfer services must rely on third-party providers for most aspects of care.

Question 4

Are some direct cremation providers actually middlemen?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some businesses market themselves as direct cremation providers, but they are not licensed to perform cremation or aquamation. Instead, they act as intermediaries, arranging the transfer of your loved one to another facility where the service is completed. This means the provider you speak with is not the one performing the service.

Question 5

What does this mean for my loved one’s care?

Accepted Answer

With McCormack Aquamation, Burial & Cremation Services, your loved one remains in the care of one dedicated team from the first call to the return of the urn. This allows for the following:
 
Personal preparation, including washing and dressing
The option for identification or a brief viewing
On-site aquamation performed by our own staff
 
Your loved one never leaves our care. With a Transfer Service Class 1 provider, these options are not available. The body is transferred to a third-party facility, often without the family having the opportunity for identification or a final viewing.

Question 6

Can I see or identify my loved one before cremation or aquamation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when working with a Funeral Establishment Class 1. Families can request identification or a brief viewing prior to the service. This provides reassurance and a final moment of certainty. Transfer Service Class 1 providers cannot offer this option due to licensing restrictions.

Question 7

Do Transfer Service providers perform cremation or aquamation?

Accepted Answer

No. Transfer Service Class 1 providers cannot legally perform cremation or aquamation. They must outsource the service to a licensed funeral establishment or crematorium.

Question 8

Why do some companies advertise themselves as alternatives to funeral homes?

Accepted Answer

Some Transfer Service providers present themselves as modern or affordable alternatives. While they may offer lower upfront pricing, their scope of service is limited. They are unable to provide the following:
 
Full arrangements
Preparation of the deceased
On-site cremation or aquamation
Viewing or visitation options
 
These services must be handled by another provider.

Question 9

What makes McCormack Aquamation, Burial & Cremation Services different?

Accepted Answer

Families in Sarnia & Lambton County choose McCormack Aquamation, Burial & Cremation Services for continuity, transparency, and complete care. We provide the following:
 
One team from start to finish
On-site aquamation services
No outsourcing or third-party involvement
Clear communication at every step
 
As a family-owned business with over 80 years of service, we remain committed to providing respectful, professional care that supports families during difficult times.

Question 10

Why does having on-site aquamation matter?

Accepted Answer

When aquamation is performed on site, the entire process stays within one trusted location and one experienced team. Aquamation uses a gentle, water-based process that breaks down organic material without flame, offering a more environmentally responsible alternative to traditional cremation. Having this service on site means:
 
greater accountability
no unnecessary transfers
confidence in who is caring for your loved one

Question 11

What is the most important takeaway when choosing a provider?

Accepted Answer

Not all service providers offer the same level of care. Some companies advertise direct cremation but do not perform the service themselves. As a licensed Funeral Establishment with on-site aquamation, your loved one never leaves our care. No outsourcing. No middlemen. Just simple, transparent, professional service from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions