Basic Funerals Blog

Image for Ottawa’s Catholic Cemetery Helps Syrian Refugees

Ottawa’s Catholic Cemetery Helps Syrian Refugees

Living in a Multi-Faith Community We live in a multi-faith community. We co-exist rather harmoniously alongside each other, with few incidents of intolerance. However, we are not immune to bigotry or prejudice. It exists in our daily lives through social media, the news and maybe even among… Read More

Image for Basic Funerals In The Canadian Business Journal

Basic Funerals In The Canadian Business Journal

Eric Vandermeersch, Founder of Basic Funerals was recently interviewed by the Canadian Business Journal about his company, and their ability to offer an affordable alternative in the funeral and cremation industry.  The services offered by Basic Funerals are not only expansive, and inclusive they are also up-front, and… Read More

Image for Dispelling Common Misconceptions about Cremation

Dispelling Common Misconceptions about Cremation

A lot of people would prefer not to talk about death, dying, and funerals. While we understand the reluctance, we also believe that open dialogue is an amazing tool. At Basic Funerals, our goal is to to simplify and demystify. So let’s start with cremation services. We’re going to… Read More

Image for Bringing Funerals Back To The Church: A Brief History of Funeral Services

Bringing Funerals Back To The Church: A Brief History of Funeral Services

A couple hundred years ago the front room of every house (or at least the houses that had them) were called parlors. In the parlor, the family would have all their best furniture, their most beautiful interior decorations and even a larger, less noticeable door off to the side. The… Read More

Image for Why Your Funeral Will Probably Be Run By a Woman

Why Your Funeral Will Probably Be Run By a Woman

Article Source:  Article by Anne Fisher on Fortune.com   The funeral business is no longer a male-dominated industry. When Kim Perry was 10 years old, she attended the funeral of a relative in her native Fall River, Mass., and was “impressed by how really lovely and comforting it was,… Read More

Image for Dissecting Funerals #1: Steve Bailey from Binsky Whittle on The Legalities of End of Life Planning

Dissecting Funerals #1: Steve Bailey from Binsky Whittle on The Legalities of End of Life Planning

It was an absolute pleasure meeting with Steven Bailey, licensed paralegal with Binsky and Whittle and member of the Law Society of Upper Canada. He educated us on some of the issues that can arise if your estate and affairs are not properly looked after before you pass away. I’ve… Read More

Image for Planning A Burial Service That Won’t Leave You Buried (In Debt)

Planning A Burial Service That Won’t Leave You Buried (In Debt)

The astronomical price tag associated with traditional funeral services can be pretty devastating. After all, you’ve gone through enough as it is, the last thing you should have to worry about is how you’re going to pay for a service. The good news? It doesn’t have to be this way. Read More

Image for 10 Reasons You MUST Have a Funeral

10 Reasons You MUST Have a Funeral

From celebrating a life at a traditional service to commiserating over stiff drinks and great food, funerals can be as austere or as extravagant as you’d like them to be. Fellow funeral director extraordinaire Caleb Wilde explores the reasons why no matter how you do it, you absolutely have… Read More

Image for Online Cremation Service Arrangements Are On The Rise

Online Cremation Service Arrangements Are On The Rise

Online shopping continues to revolutionize the retail world, and the cremation services industry is no different. Although Canada is not yet the online consumer that the United States is, we are growing and we are growing fast. Online sales in Canada are increasing at 15-20% per year and have… Read More

Image for Open-Casket Viewing: A Lesson In Photo Juxtaposition

Open-Casket Viewing: A Lesson In Photo Juxtaposition

Read this lesson on why you need to be careful when creating your own images. This situation occurred at a funeral where an image inappropriately pointed a gun at the deceased. Why Picture Editing Matters… Read More

Prev page
12345678
Next page
I used the repatriation service of Basic Funerals. Although I had some problems with some documents, the company reached out to me to help me with my problem. Therefore I would recommend them to other families.read more
Evelin Halász
15:55 15 May 20
During a difficult time, the staff at Basic Funerals we compassionate and professional as well as helping us navigate through the paperwork. We would recommend those considering an alternative to an expensive funeral consider contacting Basic Funerals to understand the less expensive alternatives for their loved one that has passed (or will be passing).read more
dennis dillon
19:49 24 Feb 20
My mom always led us to believe her final arrangements had been made and paid for. What a shock it was when she passed away to find out that wasn’t the case at all. Mom had a plot and a memorial marker paid for at the cemetery she wanted to rest in, that was it. I contacted the place mom had chosen and was shocked at how outrageously expensive everything was. Sorry to say but this place was too rich for my budget.So now, I’m bargain shopping a funeral for my mom. I chose Basic Funerals and Cremation by website reviews and pricing and have never looked back. I didn’t know what to expect since they were much more affordable than the “original” place but the professionalism and compassion shown by Basic Funerals staff is second to none. Mom was treated with respect and dignity throughout the whole process. I say whole process because due to illness in the family, we did not have mom’s service until mid February and she passed away the previous November (nearly 3 months prior). They kept mom safe and didn’t pressure me until we were ready.I should mention that everything was arranged mostly through email and the odd phone call as I live a couple hours away? I thought it was going to be extremely difficult to arrange mom’s cremation from afar but Katelyn (my first contact) made it easy and didn’t force me to make the drive unnecessarily.Mom’s service was everything I could have hoped for and so much more. Karoline Lebrun was the funeral director and memorial specialist assigned to us through the Legacy Celebrations department. I cannot say enough kind words for everything Karoline did to make mom’s final send off perfect. The clergy Karoline chose to perform the ceremony was a gem. His service wouldn’t have been much better if he had actually known mom or our family previously. Karoline arranged for mom’s urn to be transferred from the service to the cemetery for burial and personally made a couple of flower arrangements out of the flowers there to go with mom and for us to take home. She was very professional. compassionate and personable. It was an absolute pleasure to finally meet her and thank her in person for everything she did to help me arrange mom’s service.I highly recommend Basic Funerals and Cremation. The services they provide are at fraction of the cost of other funeral homes and they do so with the utmost respect, courtesy and without upselling or guilting into more than you desire. You sacrifice nothing in terms of service by choosing Basic Funerals and the Legacy Celebrations department is top notch.Cindy Byersread more
cindy byers
15:32 22 Feb 20
My Mom passed away just over a week ago. Our family was in dismay from the death and I had to make funeral arrangements immediately. Basic Funerals went above and beyond to accommodate our family's needs. From picking Mom after her passing, to funeral details, to the official program and cremation, everything was affordable and professional.The funeral took place on Saturday and everyone I spoke with was impressed by what they saw, family included. I'd highly recommend Basic Funerals to anyone looking for professionalism and affordability when it comes to caring for their deceased loved ones.read more
Christopher Neblett
22:46 01 Jan 20
In August of 2019 I became in need of Basic Funerals services.My husband had specified exactly what services he wanted and when I called Jena, she provided a plan that included everything we needed.She was very efficient, professional, and kind, and answered any questions that I had.When my husband died, I appreciated the support I received, which made a difficult time easier for me. Later, I found the package regarding closing affairs particularly helpful. Using it, I was not confused or anxious as everything I needed to do was set out for me.The experience I had with Basic Funerals leads me to highly recommend them. Thank you.read more
Marion Dick
17:20 06 Nov 19
They were attentive and responsive for all the steps for my grandmother's funeral. They came to our home to pick up her clothing and ensure that everything was prepared for the visitation and service. The final paper work was received quickly and in order. Highly recommend them.read more
Areti Papadopoulos
15:16 27 Sep 19
I can’t say enough good things about Basic. They actually know what customer service actual is. Very knowledgeable staff, great rates and well organized. There really is a plan for every type of funeral you could possibly be interested in. Robyn is an delight to work with.read more
Mary Gorman
19:01 19 Sep 19
Kaetlyn B was superb at handling Mom's affairs and handling me! Although our mother's death was expected, it was still quite overwhelming. I had never been responsible for this type of arrangement, and am very grateful for Kaetlyn's professional, yet personal manner. Every phone call was answered promptly, and my issues were addressed immediately. Kaetlyn made sure I had everything I needed to start the process, and has provided me with lots of information and direction for the days and weeks ahead. I couldn't be more pleased. I have already spread the word about Basic Funerals, and Kaetlyn. God Bless You All!read more
Karen Drake
19:11 06 Sep 19
Jessica, thank you very much for all your advice and patience and, most of all, for guiding us through this difficult time. All Cremation arrangements at Riverside Chapel were well planned . You are very kind and thank you very much. Also, thank you to everyone else at Basic Funerals and Riverside Cremation for your help.read more
sandy SAGAR
03:59 21 Aug 19
The meeting was very informative and casual. All our questions were answered in a professional manner. We did not feel pressured in any way. We are very happy with the arrangements.read more
Lina Elliot
22:51 15 Aug 19
Helpful, didn't try to push any thing on us.Very affordable.
marg lahey
02:18 08 Aug 19
My experience with Basic Funerals was excellent. My first contact was with Robin. She was easy to talk with and was very quick at returning emails, and phone calls. The pre planning process went smoothly as did the final arrangements. We went with the Basic package, cremation no service. Mailings arrived quickly. The information provided before and after was valuable and the cost of the package was considerably less than arrangements through other funeral homes. I feel comfortable in recommending this company to others in need of this service.read more
Ken Fryer
12:11 07 Aug 19
Allarrangements were handled professionalism and kindness. Jessica was lovely to deal with. The process was very efficient and the cost was reasonable, no or sure was at any time put on you to spend more than your decided you wanted which is not the case in most situations with funeral homes. I will pre arrange for myself and my husband's in the very near future.read more
Debbie Mastin
00:31 07 Aug 19
Robin was very helpful and patient with me on things I didn't understand. I appreciate that very much. Thank you, I have recommended Basic Funerals.
Verda Matthew
17:49 18 Jul 19
Very understanding and absolutely no attempt to sell us anything than we asked for. Professional and very kind.
Viv
10:42 16 Jul 19
Jessica B was very friendly and helpful
Aaron Hachie
17:22 03 Jul 19
Everyone was so helpful in dealing with my brother John's funeral.
Judy Costantini
22:57 13 May 19
During a difficult and emotional time the services we received were exactly what we wanted. There was no attempt at "up-selling" nor was there any sense that we were being guilted into making unaffordable or complex choices. Rather, we received careful attention and very professional responsiveness to our needs. I would absolutely recommend this service for anyone struggling with all of the many other details and emotional distress that follow the passing of a loved one.read more
Debra Macphail
17:18 06 Mar 19
Karoline was the front-line Funeral Director who looked after my wife's final needs. Although I was, at first skeptical, Karoline soon put my mind at ease and she created the type of service that Shelley desired and in a special location that I requested.Throughout the entire process, Karoline offered support and in the event we needed clarification, Karoline did not hesitate. She proved herself to be a valuable asset. to Classic Funerals but also to the family they served.read more
D.C. Mahoney
08:46 31 Jan 19
Robin was awesome to deal with and answered all of my questions. I only wished I know of basic funerals when I was pre arranging my mother's. I was told all sorts of lies by a funeral home.read more
joann guenette
20:04 06 Sep 18
Robin was very professional, knowledgeable, organized and helpful. Great customer service! Thank you.
Louise Viersen
20:40 20 Aug 18
We decided that we wanted to make our pre-planned funeral arrangements and had the pleasure of speaking to Robin. She sat down with us, and clearly outlined all of our options. She reviewed earlier cemetery arrangements with regard to our family plot and what we still required. We are both pleased and relieved that everything is in order and that the Executor of our estate will only have to call one number..read more
Soosy Q
19:29 24 Jul 18
Excellent customer service! Excellent prices! Convenient payment plans. Could not ask for more!
Jaden Winfree
20:08 21 Jun 18
I prearranged my own funeral all on line including payment etc..no muss no fuss....a great experience
John O'Hearn
19:38 24 Apr 18
Robin was very helpful!!! I feel very happy knowing my arrangements are done as per my wishes. This will be so helpful to my family when my time comes to depart this earth!read more
Sandra Stubbs
12:49 09 Apr 18
I contacted Basic Funerals & Cremation to pre-arrange services for my mother. I initially reached out for an appointment by email and received a very prompt reply. I set up the appointment via an email exchange and met with Robin at Basic F&C the following week. It was a very straightforward process and Robin went to great lengths to to explain and simplify the various options. I highly recommend Basic F&C for the ease of contact, arrangement and follow-up.read more
Rick Pringle
17:09 28 Mar 18
Very happy with their professional service. Quick to respond with any questions or concerns. Would highly recommend this company to anyone needing their service .read more
Gail Adamson
20:34 07 Feb 18
Convenient and respectful. This is the second time my family has used Basic Funerals and Cremations Choices. The first was 5 years ago when my father passed away and this time was for my brother. I didn't deal with Basic with my father's arrangements but my step-mother did and recommended them and honestly, I don't think I'd use anyone else moving forward. When we had word on my brother's terminal illness, I called 3 places to get quotes on the cremation he wanted. Let me preface this by saying that my brother said a Celebration of Life was acceptable but he didn't want a viewing or funeral so a cremation is what I was researching.Since this was my first time arranging such services, I had no idea what to expect. The first place (a local funeral home) quoted me $4000, so now I had a starting point. The second place (a local cremation facility) quoted me $1000 (wth? talk about a price difference!) but then stated I had to involve a separate "funeral home of my choice" for transfer services (huh?) and lastly I called Basic.Unlike the other two places I had called, Basic Funerals and Cremation Choices took the time to explain everything to me and offered to email me a quotation that contained all of the details. They offered me various packages to choose from depending on my needs and told me there was no pressure to decide now-I could decide when the time came. The three packages were Budget, Basic and Priority (I chose Priority and would recommend it for the slight price difference). They also confirmed that there would be no additional charges beyond what I was quoted (and there wasn't!).Unfortunately, it was a very short time after this call when their service was needed. I made the call to Basic and they took care of everything. They were incredibly professional the whole way through. From the initial phone call, to the follow-up call when my brother passed, to the young gentleman that came to deliver my brother's ashes and even follow-up calls, these people are top-notch.Basic Funerals and Cremations Choices took the worry out of making the arrangements. I have started recommending their service to friends and family and told my husband this is what I him to do want when my time comes.I'd like to end my review with a sincere thank you to Basic Funerals and Cremation Choices.read more
Connie P.
14:15 05 Feb 18
I was in need of immediate service and Basic Funerals were very helpful and right there tending to my request. The staff were very helpful and attentive to our needs. I would definitely recommend this service for anyone, thank you.read more
Don Mascarin
01:51 12 Jan 18
Our family lost a member who lived in Ontario while most of us are in Newfoundland. This could have caused a lot of confusion and extra expense that we did not need at this difficult time. Basic Funerals was amazing to deal with. Fast, clear, informative, inexpensive, and respectful of our wishes. We got the cremains in plenty of time for the funeral, as well as everything else we expected. I HIGHLY recommend Basic Funerals for anyone during this difficult time.read more
Cheerfully Twisted Entertainment
22:16 12 Nov 17
Communication was exemplary...clear, quick response times, helpful. I also appreciated the professional yet senstitive approach each person I spoke with had during our difficult time. One thing I very much appreciated was NO attempt to upsell whatsoever. Any tiny suggestion to get more money I would have not used their services and they never once did...very impressed by that.I was helped by David, Natasha and Kamilah and I was very happy with their customer service...I would highly recommend Basic Funerals.read more
Evangelina Coleman
19:47 12 Nov 17
My Mom had a prearranged plan with Basic Funerals at my recommendation. I found them on the internet and my Mom prearranged everything back in 2011. When my Mom passed we contacted Robin who was her Prearrangement Specialist and was extremely helpful from start to finish. I highly recommend Basic Funerals. Thank you so much Robin and staff for all your help at this difficult time!!!read more
Sandy J-Lee
18:13 12 Nov 17
Very helpful. Compassionate.
Nadine Kyle
13:59 12 Oct 17
Representatives on the phone and in person were so courteous, efficient and straight forward. It was a very difficult time for my elderly parents, and they made it so much easier and in ways enjoyable. Thank you Robin ans Stephanie for such professionalism ! The price is very affordable, no frills and up-selling. Highly recommended.read more
Dragana Skokovic-Sunjic
02:02 11 Oct 17
Prompt response. They understand and listened to your needs. Robin was extremely professionnal, caring and understood what I wanted in regards of my dad's pre-arrangements. It feels good to be understood. Robin was great and went above and beyond to provide me with a great service and no surprise in regards of the pricing.GREAT PROFESSIONAL PEOPLE.I would recommend highly BASIC FUNERALS.read more
Johanne Coshall
15:20 09 Oct 17
Basic Funeral and Cremation Choices was the right choice for my mother's cremation. I contacted Jessica a few days before the time and she provided a quotation after a few minutes on the phone. The quotation was exactly what we were looking for. The price was reasonable. Jessica was on site for the cremation and everything went as planned. I would highly recommend Jessica and her firm.read more
Ravi Aggarwal
16:13 05 Oct 17
Jessica, was wonderful She took her time walking my family through our options. The detailed information she provided was priceless. Guiding us through a very difficult time. This was the second time using her services. I'd definitely use Basic Funerals and Cremations again. Also considering prearrangement of my own aftercare services. Offering my family peace of mind that my wishes were already thought out and paid for!Louise Kruegerread more
Louise Munro
02:36 05 Oct 17
‹
›
Funeral Guide cover

Funeral Education Guide

Sign up to receive your free copy of our Funeral Education Guide and subscribe to our monthly newsletter.


Funeral Guide cover

Request a Quote

One of our Funeral Directors will send you a custom quotation that is guaranteed for at least 60 days. Fill out the form or talk to a director now at 1-877-229-7077.



Status

Choose your customer service team