The Hillside Columbarium
The Columbarium is majestically blended into the hillside overlooked by the old St. Hugo Chapel. It is an arrangement of niches into which an urn containing cremated remains is permanently placed. Within the garden the niches are connected by walkways and surrounded by elegant gardens and landscaping. Benches and warm surrounding convey dignity, respect, and make visits more meaningful.
Peace of Mind
Preplanning burial niches in the St. Hugo Hillside Columbarium Garden will assure loved ones that you are at peace with your eternal resting place. Instead of being faced with uncertainty those dearest to you will be comforted in knowing your wishes have been fulfilled. Within the beautiful setting of St. Hugo of the Hills, the exquisitely landscaped Hillside Columbarium Garden is a peaceful haven for family members to reflect on the lives of loved ones.
Memorial Arrangements
Arrangements for the purchase of a niche are made through the Business Manager’s office. When possible this should be done well in advance of need so that your decisions may be made more comfortably, prior to the time of bereavement.
Cremation
The services of a funeral director will be necessary since Michigan law is restrictive in certain areas. Cremation may be provided at a number of crematories in the area. A simple urn of permanent material is required, and this cost is not included in the purchase price of a niche.
Inurnment
Actual inurnment of the ashes in the niche will take place in private; it will be conducted by a priest and assisted by the St Hugo staff. A date for a niche side service should be arranged with the Parish office.
Memorial Identification
The name or names of the interned will be shown on the niche front with bronze letters. This will include the family (last) name, first name and middle initial, year of birth, and year of death. To maintain a dignified memorial appearance, more extensive lettering or information cannot be accommodated.
General
The Church is responsible for the maintenance of the columbarium. Only fresh floral displays are permitted provided they are not affixed to the niche.
Pricing
The current columbarium niche pricing, which has been in effect since September 2002 is:
Phase I
$3,000 for an individual niche
$4,000 for a companion niche
Phase II
$4,000 for an individual niche
$5,000 for a companion niche
Tax Advantages
A portion of each niche purchase becomes part of an endowment fund that will provide income for the perpetual care and preservation of the columbarium grounds. The portion of the niche cost, which is allocated to the endowment fund, is tax deductible.