WILLMAR -- Fairview Cemetery now offers alternatives to conventional burial with a 50-foot-square scatter garden and an area for the inurnment of ashes. It is reportedly the first cemetery in the area to offer specific services for the final disposition of cremated remains.
According to Fairview sexton Pat Handt, the cemetery is still available for traditional interment, but is now more able to fully accommodate individual wishes and cultural needs.
As a board member of the Fairview Cemetery Association, Sharolyn Lind explained that "the scatter garden is for those who do not want their ashes buried in the ground, but still want to return to nature. This gives them that alternative."
With a central bench for viewing and meditation surrounded by various wildflowers and perennial bulbs planned by a local master gardener, Lind said the "ultimate goal of this ongoing project is to have something beautiful blooming year round."
Saplings have been planted around the garden's perimeter to offer privacy for friends and family members of the decedents during memorial services and future visitations.
ADVERTISEMENT
The scatter garden officially became available to the public in June. For an added fee, the deceased's name and year of death can be engraved on the garden bench.
Fairview also offers a sprawling section of the property that is specially designated for the burial of ashes in urns or other appropriate containers of choice. The first cremation burial took place in 2004, but only five of the plots are currently in use with "lots of space still available," Handt said. She wanted to remind the public that Fairview's lots include perpetual care and all faiths are welcomed.
One of only two non-denominational community cemeteries in Kandiyohi County, Fairview is located on Gorton Avenue Southwest in Willmar and is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
For more information, contact your funeral home or call Pat at 320-235-8201.
