Direct cremation is the simplest disposition option. It costs less than a traditional funeral by a factor of three to five. About sixty percent of the families we serve choose it.
Below is what's included at Marker, where the cremation actually happens, and how long it takes. If something here is unclear, call us at (206) 555-0144.
What's included
- Care
- Refrigeration and care of the deceased on our premises (no embalming).
- Permits
- Filing of the death certificate, cremation permit, and any state notifications.
- Transport
- Transport to and from the partner cremation facility — by a Marker staff member, not a courier.
- Cremation
- Cremation at the Cremation Society of Washington in Tukwila. Witness available by appointment.
- Return
- Return of cremated remains in a temporary container, hand-delivered or mailed.
- Memorial
- If you want a memorial, that's a separate price — see below.
Where the cremation happens
Marker does not have its own crematory. We don't have the volume to justify it, and we don't think it's worth the markup we'd have to add to our prices to support one. Instead, we use the Cremation Society of Washington's Tukwila facility, 18 minutes from our Belltown chapel. We have used the same partner since 2016.
The cremation is performed by Cremation Society of Washington staff. Your loved one is transported there by a Marker director, never by a third-party courier. We sit with the cremation. The certificate comes back to us, and from us to your hand.
We don't have our own crematory. We have a partner, and you'll know the partner's name.
How long it takes
The cremation itself is 2-3 hours. The full process — from time of death to remains in your hand — is typically 7-10 days. This includes refrigeration before, the cremation appointment scheduling, processing of remains, and return to the family. Some firms advertise faster turnaround; we don't because rushing it requires shortcuts we are not willing to take.
Add a memorial
You don't have to. Many families choose direct cremation without a service. But if you want one, the options are below — same prices as on the pricing page:
- In your home
- $750 — we coordinate the program, music, and officiant. We bring everything; you provide the space.
- In our chapel
- $2,400 — up to 40 guests. Live-stream included.
- Outdoors
- $1,250 — we coordinate the venue (park, beach, garden) and permits.
- At a cemetery
- $1,400 — we coordinate the service; cemetery handles the rest.
Frequently asked questions
How much does direct cremation cost at Marker?
$1,895, all-in. No hidden fees. No upsells. The number on this page is the number on the contract.
Where does the cremation happen?
At the Cremation Society of Washington in Tukwila, our partner since 2016. We transport, we wait, we return.
Can I be present at the cremation?
Yes. By appointment, no charge. We'll explain the process and stand with you.
How long does the cremation process take?
Cremation itself: 2-3 hours. Full process from death to your hand: 7-10 days.