Which of your cemeteries still have space/graves available?
Although space for traditional ground burial is somewhat limited in the Toronto cemeteries, we have sufficient space in the GTA to last for many decades to come. For those choosing cremation, considerable space and a wide variety of options are available.

How long is the cremation process?
Only one cremation is carried out at a time, and the entire process takes approximately three hours.

What is left after the cremation process?
After approximately one and a half hours, heat or evaporation consumes all organic matter. What is left are the bone fragments which are then processed into fine particles which are more commonly known ‘ashes.’

Do I need a casket if I choose cremation?
What is required is an enclosed, rigid container made of wood or other combustible material, to allow for the dignified handling of the deceased. The unopened container is placed in the cremation retort, where it is consumed by fire.

What options do I have after the cremation has taken place?
All ten of our cemeteries have extensive memorialization options for the ashes of your loved one. In particular, we have created a Garden of Remembrance, a cemetery within a cemetery, at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Toronto, Meadowvale Cemetery in Brampton, Duffin Meadows Cemetery in Pickering and York Cemetery in North York. At those locations, we have set aside a special area for unique memorialization for those choosing cremation. Please contact the cemetery of your choice for detailed information or to arrange a tour.

Is cremation less expensive than ground burial?
When comparing the basic services required with each option, yes. However, please keep in mind that the overall cost depends on the other services selected. Do you prefer a certain type of interment (urn space/niche)? If so, will you want an urn? What type of memorial is important to you? Cremation can be just as expensive or inexpensive as you choose to make it.

Can I scatter ashes anywhere?
All of MPGC’s cemeteries have designated memorial scattering areas. These are areas in the cemetery that will never be developed for any other use in the future. Since the scattering of ashes is an irreversible process, we require that all arrangements for scattering be made in person at the cemetery office. Scattering ashes outside of a cemetery is considered illegal unless the permission of the land owner has been obtained.

Does Mount Pleasant Group of Cemeteries have sections where veterans and their partners can be buried?
Yes. Prospect, Pine Hills, York, Beechwood, Elgin Mills, Meadowvale, Thornton and Duffin Meadows cemeteries all have veterans’ graves.
Pine Hills, York, Beechwood, Thornton and Duffin Meadows cemeteries have veterans’ urn spaces as well.

Does one have to be a Canadian veteran to be buried in one of your veterans’ sections?
No. The veterans’ sections are available to both Canadian and Allied veterans.

Do you have facilities where funeral, memorial or cremation services can be held?
Yes. At Pine Hills, York, Elgin Mills, Mount Pleasant and Meadowvale cemeteries we have Visitation Centres where you can not only hold a service but also have the visitation beforehand and a reception following the service.
   At Toronto Necropolis, Prospect and Thornton cemeteries we have chapels where you can hold a service. It is also possible to have the visitation in these chapels before the service, but only during daylight hours.

Do you have a place where a reception can take place?
Yes. We have Visitation Centres at five of our cemeteries: Pine Hills Cemetery in east Toronto; York Cemetery in north Toronto; Elgin Mills Cemetery in Richmond Hill; Mount Pleasant Cemetery in central Toronto; and, Meadowvale Cemetery in Brampton.

What if I prefer interment, but my spouse prefers cremation?
This need not be a problem. One solution is to purchase a grave or lot that would allow for the interment of a casket or container, as well as an urn containing the ashes of your loved one.

Is embalming required before my loved one is buried?
No. Embalming is not a requirement in Ontario. It is entirely your choice, and may depend on such factors as whether or not there will be an open casket with viewing of the deceased; whether your loved one is to be transported by air or rail; and the length of time prior to interment or other factors.

What is an endowment?
An endowment is money deposited with Mount Pleasant Group of Cemeteries to provide extra services, such as special care of the gravesite, far into the future. The principal sum is kept intact, with only the interest used for additional services. The amount of the endowment necessary will depend on the services you would like. Endowments may be made at any time, including by bequest.

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