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Crematory Tours Available at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens Crematory and Chapel

03.13.2026
Written By Andrew McIntosh

Crematory Tours Available at Mission Hills 

Mission Hills offers crematory tours for families who want to better understand the cremation process. Many people find that seeing the facility brings comfort and clarity. Our staff treats every area of the crematory with compassion, dignity, with the highest level of respect.

Only Crematory in Cass County

Mission Hills is proud to operate the only crematory in Cass County. Opened in the year of 2000. Serving the majority of southwestern lower Michigan. 

Why Tour the Crematory

Our owner, Bert Edquist, requires that every cremation at Mission Hills meet the highest standards of dignity and care. Our goal is to provide a dignified cremation, which often takes more time than many high-volume crematories allow. This careful process ensures individual attention and eliminates the possibility of commingling. The all in all process from start to finish typically takes 5 and a half hours. 

Refrigeration

Before cremation takes place, individuals are respectfully placed in a secure refrigeration area. This space is maintained to preserve dignity and proper care while arrangements are finalized. Strict identification procedures ensure every individual remains properly accounted for at all times. 

Crematory / Retort

The cremation chamber, also called the retort, is where the cremation process occurs.The cremation chamber typically operates around 1600 Degrees.  Each cremation is performed individually, following strict identification and tracking procedures. Our staff carefully monitors the entire process to ensure it is completed with dignity and respect.

Processing of Cremated Remains

After cremation is complete, the remains are carefully processed into a fine consistency. This step is done individually to ensure the remains returned belong only to your loved one. The cremated remains are then placed in the selected urn or temporary container and prepared to be returned to the family.