Why You Might Consider a Columbarium Niche

Cremation Society of Milwaukee • July 18, 2022

If you are looking for a beautiful setting to house your loved one’s remains in Greenfield, WI., consider a columbarium niche. Learn more about this option here.  

direct cremation in Greenfield, WI

If you are considering direct cremation in Greenfield, WI. as part of your preplanning arrangements, or for immediate need for a family member, one thing you will need to decide is where to keep the remains afterwards. One of the places to consider is a columbarium niche. Now, if you are not very familiar with columbariums don’t worry as not many people are. Today we are going to look at these structures in more detail and explore why some families may choose this option. 


What is a Columbarium? 


Columbariums are structures that are most often seen in cemeteries, cremation gardens, as well as other memorial sites. They can be large or small structures and can be attached to another structure or building, or act as a stand alone structure. Columbariums can also be found inside as well as outside. 


What makes a columbarium different that other walls or structures is that they are made up of spaces called “niches”. These niches are where families keep the remains of their loved ones. These niches can be all the same size across the columbarium or vary in size. They can also have different materials to cover them. Two of the most common materials are: 


  • Glass – Glass front niches allow the contents of the nice to be viewed. Because of this, many families will add additional items such as photos or personal mementos with the urn. 


  • Metal – Metal font niches obscure the view of the inside. Many of these niches will offer families a small plaque to be engraved and paced on the outside of the niche. 


Why Choose a Columbarium Niche? 


Columbarium niches can appeal to families for several different reasons. Some of the most common reasons include: 


  • General location- While keeping a loved one’s urn in home is a nice idea, it may not be the most convenient for other family members. With the urn being in a columbarium niche, various family members can visit whenever they wish rather than having to make arrangements with the person who’s home the urn is housed in. 


  • The remains are protected- Placing your loved one’s remains in a columbarium niche means you can feel confident the urn is protected. Columbariums are built as solid structures and each niche is secure. Also, since these columbariums are normally part of other spaces such as cemeteries and cremation gardens, they will most likely be there for hundreds of years in the future. 


  • Provides a peaceful resting place- With columbariums being part of other memorial spaces, the surroundings are typically landscaped and offer benches and other sitting areas for reflection. Having your loved one be a rest in such a beautiful setting can bring much needed comfort.   


Final Thoughts 


While there are many options on how to keep your loved one’s ashes after their direct cremation in Greenfield, WI, it may be worth while to look into a columbarium niche. With these niches being in beautiful settings, keeping your loved one’s remains secure, and providing a general location for all family members to visit, it might be the perfect fit for you and your family. 


Blogs

direct cremation Wauwatosa WI
By Cremation Society of Milwaukee December 3, 2025
Learn the timeline for direct cremation from first call to return, plus key factors that may affect timing, so families can plan calmly ahead of time with care.
direct cremation Milwaukee WI
By Cremation Society of Milwaukee December 3, 2025
A clear step by step guide to direct cremation, from first call to final paperwork, so families know what to expect and can move forward with calm confidence.
direct cremation West Allis WI
By Cremation Society of Milwaukee December 1, 2025
Learn how quiet hours and scheduled gatherings at memorial grounds support reflection, accessibility, and respectful visits for everyone in San Francisco today.
direct cremation Wauwatosa WI
By Cremation Society of Milwaukee November 4, 2025
Learn how families find peace, comfort, and meaning through the dignified simplicity of direct cremation Wauwatosa, WI, guided with care and understanding.
direct cremation Milwaukee WI
By Cremation Society of Milwaukee November 4, 2025
Discover how thoughtful pre-need arrangements bring peace, clarity, and lasting comfort to families selecting direct cremation Milwaukee, WI, with dignity.
direct cremation West Allis WI
By Cremation Society of Milwaukee November 4, 2025
Discover the simplicity, dignity, and thoughtful planning behind direct cremation West Allis, WI, and how it provides families peace and meaningful remembrance.
direct cremation Wauwatosa WI
By Cremation Society of Milwaukee November 4, 2025
Learn how direct cremation simplifies the funeral process, an affordable, straightforward, and respectful option for honoring loved ones without added stress.
October 28, 2025
Cremation provides flexibility for families who want to celebrate a loved one’s life in a personal and meaningful way. Once cremation is complete, there are countless options to honor their memory — both traditional and modern. Here in Milwaukee, many families are blending comfort, creativity, and community to keep their loved one’s legacy alive. Scattering Ceremonies in Local Spaces Milwaukee offers many beautiful outdoor locations for scattering ashes — from peaceful lakesides to private gardens. Families often choose spots that hold special meaning, creating a calm, reflective experience. Be sure to review local guidelines for scattering to ensure compliance while maintaining dignity and respect. Memorial Jewelry and Keepsakes Cremation jewelry allows you to keep your loved one close wherever you go. Pendants, bracelets, or rings can hold a small portion of ashes or even be crafted into gemstones. The Cremation Society of Milwaukee offers urns, jewelry, and keepsakes designed to help families cherish lasting memories. Living Memorials: Turning Remembrance into Growth Many families choose to mix ashes with soil to plant a tree or flower bed, symbolizing renewal and continued life. Living memorials are growing in popularity across Wisconsin, offering both beauty and a long-lasting tribute that reflects the cycle of life and love. Digital Memorials and Online Tributes Creating a virtual memorial page lets friends and family share photos, stories, and condolences — especially when distance prevents gathering in person. The Cremation Society of Milwaukee’s online obituary section provides a permanent digital space to celebrate a loved one’s legacy and keep their memory accessible to all who cared for them. Private Family Gatherings or Legacy Dinners Some families prefer intimate celebrations over formal services — such as a favorite meal, slideshow, or toast at home. These gatherings allow laughter, reflection, and connection, bringing comfort through shared memories and storytelling.  Cremation gives families the freedom to celebrate life in ways that feel personal, affordable, and heartfelt. Whether you choose a quiet scattering, a memorial keepsake, or an online tribute, every gesture keeps your loved one’s story alive. At Cremation Society of Milwaukee, we’re here to guide you with simple, transparent cremation services and thoughtful options for remembrance.
direct cremation Milwaukee WI
By Cremation Society of Milwaukee October 1, 2025
Learn how digital memorials after direct cremation services help families honor loved ones. Explore online tributes, gatherings, and multimedia storytelling.
direct cremation West Allis WI
By Cremation Society of Milwaukee September 30, 2025
Learn how families balance faith with cremation choices. Explore traditions, spiritual considerations, and meaningful ways to honor beliefs with compassion.