Death Dialogues: What to Consider When Choosing a Casket

At Beechwood, we understand that choosing a casket is one of the most personal and significant decisions a family can make. It’s not just a matter of appearance—it’s about values, legacy, and ensuring that every detail honours the individual in a dignified and respectful way.

In our ongoing Death Dialogues series, we recently welcomed Northern Casket, a Canadian company with nearly a century of experience in casket manufacturing. Their insights to families provided valuable guidance on what to look for—and what truly matters—when selecting a casket.

The Case for Canadian-Made Caskets

When it comes to something as important as a final resting place, local craftsmanship makes a difference. Canadian-made caskets reflect high standards of production, environmental responsibility, and a deep connection to Canadian heritage. Supporting local manufacturers ensures ethical practices, shorter supply chains, and long-term quality. Northern Casket, based in Lindsay, Ontario, is one of the last fully Canadian and family owned and operated casket manufacturers. They manufacture every casket —from sourcing wood to assembly—and offer a product families can trust.

Key Factors to Consider

Here’s what families should keep in mind when choosing a casket:

1. Material -  Hardwood vs. Veneer

• Hardwood caskets, made from species like oak, maple, and poplar, are long-lasting, naturally beautiful, and biodegradable. They are often chosen for their strength, timeless appearance, and the warmth of natural wood grain. Each type of hardwood brings its own unique character—oak for its tradition and strength, maple for its smooth finish, and poplar for its lighter tone and sustainability. These caskets are ideal for families who value craftsmanship, durability, and an environmentally conscious choice.
• Veneer or particleboard caskets offer a more cost-effective option while maintaining a dignified appearance. These caskets are ideal for families seeking a simpler or more economical solution, and can still be customized with various finishes and interiors to reflect the personality and preferences of the individual.

Hardwood is a preferred choice for families seeking tradition, strength, and environmental integrity.

2. Customization and Personal Touches

Many families choose to personalize caskets as a meaningful way to honour the life, values, and legacy of their loved one. Customization options not only allow for individual expression, but also ensure that the final tribute is reflective of the person’s beliefs, heritage, and personality. Consider the following features when selecting a casket:

• Interior Fabric Choices: Families may select from a range of materials such as soft velvet, quilted cotton, or embroidered satin. These fabrics can feature designs or patterns that reflect the loved one’s personal style or cultural background.
• Finish and Stain Colour: The tone and texture of the wood finish can be customized to align with the individual’s aesthetic preferences, from rich mahogany and deep walnut to lighter tones like maple or ash. Matte, gloss, or natural finishes can add further depth.
• Engraved Nameplates or Emblems: Personalized engravings, including the individual’s name, important dates, or meaningful quotes, can be added to a metal or wooden nameplate. Emblems representing military service, professional affiliations, or personal passions can also be included.
• Religious or Cultural Symbols: Many families choose to incorporate symbols such as a crucifix, Star of David, Om symbol, or national motifs to reflect their loved one’s faith, heritage, or spiritual beliefs. These details create a sense of continuity and honour cultural traditions.

Personalizing a casket can provide comfort and significance during a difficult time—turning a necessary choice into a lasting expression of respect and remembrance.

3. Sustainability

For families mindful of their environmental footprint, sustainable casket options offer a way to honour a loved one while supporting ecological responsibility.

Key considerations include:

• Responsibly Sourced Hardwoods: Choose caskets made from Canadian hardwoods such as oak, maple, or poplar that come from sustainably managed forests. These materials are renewable, biodegradable, and durable.
• Water-Based Finishes: Look for low-VOC, water-based stains and sealants that minimize air pollutants and reduce environmental harm during production and use.
• Local Manufacturing: Selecting caskets manufactured in Canada supports lower transportation emissions and aligns with higher domestic environmental and labour standards.
• Eco-Efficient Production: Families may also seek products created through low-waste, low-energy manufacturing practices—an increasingly available option across many responsible casket producers.

Enviro-Casket™ by Northern Casket For those seeking a certified green burial option, the Enviro-Casket™, designed and produced by Northern Casket, offers a uniquely Canadian solution. This trademarked and proprietary casket is crafted from sustainable materials using environmentally conscious production methods. It is free of metal components, constructed with biodegradable materials, and finished with water-based products—making it suitable for natural or green burial practices. Proudly built in Lindsay, Ontario, the Enviro-Casket™ reflects a commitment to preserving natural ecosystems while honouring loved ones with dignity and care. https://www.northerncasket.com/enviro

4. Budget and Value

A well-made casket should meet both emotional and financial needs. Canadian manufacturers offer a wide range of price points without compromising on integrity or quality.

5. Origin and Manufacturing

Ask where and how the casket is made. A truly Canadian-made casket will:

• Be constructed entirely in Canada.
• Use Canadian-sourced wood.
• Be subject to local labour and environmental regulations. This ensures the product reflects national standards and values.

Did You Know?

• Northern Casket has been crafting caskets since 1926 and remains family-owned.
• They are one of the few manufacturers offering entirely Canadian-made caskets, from raw material to final product.

Choosing a casket is never easy, but it can be a deeply meaningful part of saying goodbye. By understanding what to look for—material, craftsmanship, customization, and sustainability—families can make informed decisions that reflect their values and honour the person they love.

At Beechwood, we are committed to providing thoughtful guidance through every step of the journey. Whether you’re preplanning or making decisions in the moment, we’re here to ensure your choices are respected and supported.

Northern Casket is a proudly Canadian, family-owned business that has been serving funeral homes and families across Canada for four generations. Their dedication to superior craftsmanship, ethical practices, and environmental sustainability has earned them a reputation as a trusted name in the funeral industry.

From traditional wood caskets to biodegradable options, Northern Casket provides a wide range of products that reflect the values and wishes of each individual and family they serve. Their focus on innovation and community engagement ensures they remain at the forefront of the industry, delivering both quality and compassion in every product they make.