When you make a whole body donation, you are helping generations to come. Donor bodies are used for medical research, training, and education. Researchers study disease progression and test medical devices to ensure safe application. Physicians learn anatomy, and surgeons practice life-saving procedures.
In Arizona, United Tissue Network (UTN) coordinates whole body donation programs, ensuring placement with reputable medical and educational facilities. After research has been completed, UTN pays for the cost of cremation and returning the remains to family members upon request.
Whole body donation cremation can help families heal, knowing that the passing of their loved one can help others.
Families can still hold funeral services, celebrations of life, or memorial services for their loved ones before or after whole body donation cremation takes place.
Ideas for Cremation Memorial Service
Families can certainly hold traditional memorial services at a funeral home, church, or other religious institution or a DIY gathering at home. You can personalize the service according to how you want to celebrate and remember your loved one’s life.
In Arizona, there are countless locations where you can hold services. Here are a few of the more popular ideas for cremation memorial services throughout the state.
Northern Arizona
- Grand Canyon National Park—Iconic viewpoints like Mather Point or Yavapai Point
- Sedona—Red Rock State Park or Cathedral Rock
- Flagstaff—Coconino National Forest or the Arboretum at Flagstaff
Phoenix Area
- South Mountain Park—Stunning desert vistas
- Papago Park—With its iconic Hole-in-the-Rock formation
- Desert Botanical Garden—Peaceful desert landscapes
Scottsdale
- McDowell Sonoran Preserve—Serene desert trails
- Taliesin West—Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece
Prescott
- Watson Lake—Scenic lakeside views
- Thumb Butte—Forested trails with panoramic views
Tucson Area
- Saguaro National Park—Among the iconic Saguaro cacti
- Mount Lemmon—Cooler mountain retreat with scenic overlooks
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum—Combination of zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum
Southern Arizona
- Tombstone—Old West charm and historic cemetery settings
- Bisbee—Quaint town with historic architecture and scenic hilltop views
Eastern Arizona
- Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests—Peaceful forested areas and lakes
- Casa Grande Ruins National Monument—Historic site with cultural significance
- Salt River Canyon—Scenic overlooks and the Salt River running through rugged terrain
Western Arizona
- Lake Havasu City—London Bridge and lakeside parks
- Colorado River—Scenic spots along the riverbanks
- Hualapai Mountain Park—Pine forested mountains with hiking trails
Unique Locations
- Meteor Crater—A dramatic natural landmark near Winslow
- Antelope Canyon—Stunning slot canyons near Page
- Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument—Remote desert landscapes with unique cacti formations
Before you choose a location, you should find out if you need a permit or whether there are specific requirements or limitations, especially if you plan to scatter remains.
These are just a few ideas for cremation memorial services throughout Arizona. The best locations are ones that have a special meaning for families or their loved ones. Perhaps there was a particular place that the deceased enjoyed visiting. Other locations symbolize Arizona values. For example, holding a memorial service at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix can reflect a connection to the state’s unique desert flora, while choosing McDowell Sonoran Preserve in Scottsdale honors Arizona’s commitment to preserving its natural landscapes.
Historic settings such as Tombstone and Bisbee in Southern Arizona offer a tribute to the state’s rich Wild West history, perfect for celebrating a loved one who had a fondness for Arizona’s past. Each location provides a distinct backdrop that can enhance the meaningfulness of your memorial service.
Whole Body Donation Cremation Memorial Services
While cremation typically takes place within a week after someone’s passing, there is a delay with whole body donation cremation. Depending on the circumstances, medical research may take weeks or even months, delaying cremation until the research has been completed.
Many participating families choose to have a memorial service shortly after their loved one’s passing and then a second ceremony to scatter the remains when they are returned. Often, the first memorial service is held for family, friends, and acquaintances, while the scattering ceremony is a more private goodbye.
Hopefully, these ideas for cremation memorial services can inspire you to create a memorable and meaningful ceremony to honor your loved one. However, you can choose to remember them in your own unique way.
If you would like to learn more about whole body donation cremation in Arizona, contact United Tissue Network (UTN) at 877-738-6111. Donor Specialists are ready to take your call 24/7.
