Services

Terramation Process

The terramation process begins with a respectful washing of the body, followed by dressing in a biodegradable gown, preparing for the journey back to the earth. The body is placed inside of a vessel, surrounded by an organic blend of alfalfa, straw and sawdust. The body then undergoes a 30 day process of natural breakdown, fueled by microbes contained in the body. Post decomposition, the bones are processed further to integrate fully into the nutrient-rich soil, while medical devices are carefully extracted and recycled. The newly formed compost undergoes a resting phase, cooling and settling over the next 30 days. In total, it takes approximately 9-10 weeks for the two phases of the terramation process to complete. Following the cycle, families receive approximately 250 pounds of soil, ready to foster new life. Any soil that the family cannot take will be scattered at Return Home's private woodland in Kent, Washington at no additional charge.

Please see pricing information below, and contact us with any questions. Members of the Galante Funeral Home staff personally visited Return Home's beautiful facility in Washington to ensure familiarity with Terramation, and to see how the process works first-hand.

Galante Funeral Home is also proud to offer green and natural burial options. Please see costs below and contact Galante Funeral Home with all questions. For your convenience, a list of cemeteries with Natural Burial options is provided below the cost breakdown.