Unique Funeral and Ash Scattering Traditions From Around the World
Funerals and ash scattering ceremonies are as varied as the cultures that create them. Around the world, families have developed creative, meaningful ways to celebrate life, say goodbye, and find peace.
From centuries-old rituals to modern expressions of remembrance, these customs reveal how deeply we connect with nature, community, and memory.
International Ash Scattering: Pulvis has incredible insight in European laws on ash scattering if you want to replicate some of these traditions yourself overseas.
Or Check Out Our Complete Guide To Traveling with Ashes
📞 Speak to a Memorial Specialist: (515) 206-4845
bonaventurememorial@gmail.com
Germany: Forest Burials and Woodland Farewells
Germany Ash Scattering Traditions: Woodland Burials and Cross-Border Farewells
In Germany, many families are embracing woodland burials as a thoughtful alternative to traditional cemeteries. One popular option is the FriedWald — a network of managed forest burial sites where ashes are scattered or buried beneath designated trees. These forests offer a natural and serene environment, allowing families to say goodbye in a private, peaceful setting surrounded by nature.
FriedWald: Germany’s Network of Forest Burial Sites
The FriedWald concept provides families with a tranquil space to honor their loved ones, where the ashes return to the earth beneath majestic trees. This approach emphasizes simplicity and connection with nature, free from the formalities and permanence of conventional memorials.
Cross-Border Ash Scattering: Sending Ashes to Switzerland
For those seeking something even more unique, it’s increasingly common to send ashes to neighboring Switzerland, where regulations allow for creative scattering in untouched natural landscapes — deep forests, glacial valleys, or alpine meadows. Swiss traditions embrace returning ashes to the wild, offering families meaningful ways to honor their loved ones far beyond the usual cemetery plot.
Practical Tips for Ash Scattering in Germany and Switzerland
Permission and regulations: In Germany, scattering ashes in forests like FriedWald requires booking a plot or area in advance. Switzerland generally permits scattering in natural areas but always verify local regulations to avoid fines.
Choosing biodegradable urns: Use eco-friendly urns designed for scattering to ensure the ashes integrate naturally with the environment.
Consider seasonal timing: Woodland sites are most accessible and visually appealing during spring and summer, though each season offers unique beauty.
Work with certified providers: Both Germany and Switzerland have services that assist with logistics, paperwork, and ceremonies, helping families navigate cross-border scattering smoothly.
Recommended Scattering Locations in Germany and Switzerland
FriedWald Forests (Germany): Various locations throughout Germany offer peaceful woodland burial sites, including near Cologne, Hamburg, and Munich.
Swiss National Parks: Remote areas such as the Swiss National Park in the Engadine Valley provide pristine landscapes for scattering ashes.
Alpine Meadows and Glacial Valleys: Regions around the Matterhorn or Jungfrau offer stunning backdrops, ideal for families seeking a mountain farewell.
Black Forest (Schwarzwald): This iconic German forest is a favored area for woodland ceremonies, combining natural beauty with cultural heritage.
Looking for more beautiful places to scatter Ashes? Check out our Guide to Scattering Ashes in All 50 States
Germany: Woodland Burials, Legal Restrictions, and Cross-Border Traditions
Germany’s relationship with ash scattering is shaped by one of the strictest funeral laws in Europe. In most states (Bundesländer), ashes must be interred in a designated cemetery — a concept known as the Friedhofszwang (“cemetery obligation”). Scattering ashes freely in nature is generally not permitted.
Legal Considerations
Most German states require burial in a cemetery, whether traditional or a designated woodland cemetery (Friedwald or Ruheforst).
Friedwald sites allow ashes to be buried in biodegradable urns beneath chosen trees, combining nature with regulation.
Ash scattering is not typically allowed on open land, beaches, or public waters within Germany.
Many families send ashes to Switzerland, where laws are more permissive, allowing scatterings in mountains, lakes, or forests.
Practical Tips for Families
Book a Friedwald or Ruheforst ceremony for a legal, nature-centered farewell within Germany.
If choosing Switzerland, coordinate with a local funeral director or ash scattering service familiar with cross-border transport rules.
Secure all paperwork for transporting ashes internationally, including death and cremation certificates.
Consider seasonal conditions — forest floors in winter or alpine lakes in spring can transform the tone of the ceremony.
Memorable and Meaningful Locations
Friedwald Reinhardswald — one of Germany’s oldest and most storied forest burial sites.
Black Forest Ruheforst — where mossy paths lead to towering evergreens.
Lake Geneva (Swiss side) — mirror-like waters surrounded by Alps, easily reached from southern Germany.
Alpine meadows near Interlaken — for those seeking a scattering among wildflowers with panoramic peaks.
🌿 See Available National Park Destinations →
📞 Speak to a Memorial Specialist: (515) 206-4845
bonaventurememorial@gmail.com
France: Legal Framework for Ash Scattering & Beautiful Locations
France has long been a nation where beauty and tradition weave effortlessly into the fabric of daily life, and farewells are no exception. From the windswept cliffs of Normandy to the quiet lavender fields of Provence, the French landscape offers places of profound peace and reflection. Here, parting rituals are shaped by both the country’s strict laws and its deep cultural reverence for art, history, and nature — inviting families to find settings that speak not only to memory, but to the enduring poetry of place.
Understanding the Law
No urn at home
Since 2008, French law prohibits keeping cremated remains at home except temporarily while planning their final purpose AdvitamSociété d'avocats Damy.Allowed destinations
Cremated ashes can be:Scattered in a designated memorial garden (jardin du souvenir) within a cemetery or crematorium.
Buried in a columbarium, cavurn, or family tomb.
Scattered “in nature,” such as forests, mountains, or open countryside—but not in public parks, streets, or built-up areas AdvitamThe Connexion.
Mandatory notification
If scattered in nature, you must declare the act to the town hall (mairie) of the deceased’s birthplace, where a record is kept by law French Business LawP-O LifeThe Connexion.Scattering at sea
Strict penalties
Dispersing ashes outside of permitted locations—such as private homes, public venues, or unauthorized land—is punishable by fines up to €15,000 Complete FranceFrench Business Law.Handling ash transport and repatriation
For scattering abroad, you need:Permission from the prefect (administrative authority where the cremation occurred).
Required documentation: sealed urn, cremation and death certificates, and potentially a laissez-passer.
Airlines may consider the urn carry-on baggage; always check ahead Société d'avocats DamyP-O Life.
Beautiful Legal Choices for Scattering Ashes
Remembrance Gardens
Many municipal cemeteries and crematoria provide dedicated memorial gardens—quiet, maintained spaces where ashes can be respectfully scattered by cemetery staff.Natural Scenic Backdrops
Rural forests, mountain trails, or open fields are all permissible for scattering, provided they're accessible and well above urban or residential areas.
These settings offer a quiet intimacy and sense of closeness to nature, grounded in legality and respect.
By the Sea
Imagine a farewell at twilight—as ashes are gently released into the open water, beyond sight of land. With formal procedures handled, these ceremonies can become deeply personal and memorable.Innovative Woodland Cemetery: Forêt Cinéraire in Arbas
France's first officially recognized woodland cemetery in Arbas (Haute-Garonne) combines nature with tradition. Here, ashes may be placed beneath trees in serene clearings, blending respect with ecological beauty The Connexion.
Japan: Temple Ceremonies and Nature’s Embrace
Japan has an almost 100% cremation rate nationwide, accompanied by some of the most intensive cultural traditions surrounding the honoring of crematory remains.
Kotsuage: The Ceremony of Bone Picking
In the quiet stillness of a Japanese crematorium, a profound ritual unfolds — one that connects the living with the departed in a delicate dance of remembrance and respect. This is Kotsuage, a ceremony carried out with measured reverence and practiced grace.
Family members gather, each holding a pair of slender chopsticks, poised to gently lift the bones of their loved one from the ashes. It is no hurried act, but a thoughtful journey — beginning at the feet and moving steadily upward, as if retracing the path of a life well-lived. The care with which each fragment is handled speaks volumes: here, every bone is honored, every part of the person’s story is preserved.
“One fascinating aspect is that the cremated bones are not reduced in size as they are in many Western cultures. Consequently, large bone fragments, such as the thigh bone, must be handled by two relatives using chopsticks. Sharing one item between two sets of chopsticks is a serious faux pas in any other context, as it is a stark reminder of funerals.”
The final moment holds a particular solemnity — when the second cervical vertebra is placed with steady hands into the urn by the eldest son or closest relative. This small bone, heavy with symbolic meaning, marks the closing of a chapter and the beginning of a new journey for the soul.
Bunkotsu: The Gentle Release Back to Nature
But the ritual does not end there. Families often choose a place to scatter the ashes — a mountain peak kissed by morning light, a serene river flowing through ancient forests, or a favorite garden where memories bloom anew. This is Bunkotsu, the gentle release back to the elements.
As the ashes scatter and mingle with wind, water, and earth, they become part of the very landscape that shaped a life. In this quiet act of return, there is a profound peace — a promise that the soul’s journey continues, woven forever into the fabric of the natural world.
Japan: Ash Scattering Laws, Practical Tips, and Meaningful Locations
In Japan, ash scattering (散骨, sankotsu) is growing in acceptance, though it remains governed by social norms and local regulations rather than a single national law. The practice is legal when done respectfully and without causing public nuisance, but families should avoid busy public spaces and secure permission from landowners or authorities when necessary.
Legal Considerations
No blanket national law — legality depends on the manner and location of scattering.
Avoid densely populated or sensitive areas such as busy parks, popular beaches, or harbors.
Private land requires permission from the owner; public lands may require permits.
Sea scatterings should take place well offshore, typically beyond 2–3 nautical miles, to comply with maritime guidelines.
Practical Tips for Families
Use a biodegradable urn or scattering tube to make the ceremony smooth and discreet.
Consult local municipalities or funeral providers familiar with regional customs.
Plan for weather and tides if scattering at sea or along the coast.
Incorporate tradition — some families include karakia (blessings), incense, or flower petals.
Beautiful and Culturally Resonant Locations
Mount Fuji’s lower slopes — not on the mountain itself, but in surrounding forest clearings where views of Fuji-san feel eternal.
Seto Inland Sea — calm waters dotted with islands, ideal for a private boat ceremony.
Rural temple gardens — with prior arrangement, some temples allow scattering in carefully tended grounds.
Remote coastal cliffs in Hokkaido — where the wind and sea feel untouched by time.
Scattering ashes in Japan blends modern adaptation with ancient reverence. Whether overlooking a sacred peak or releasing remains into the rhythm of the sea, the act becomes part of the landscape’s ongoing story.
🌿 See Available National Park Destinations →
📞 Speak to a Memorial Specialist: (515) 206-4845
bonaventurememorial@gmail.com
United Kingdom: Sea Scatterings and Community Gatherings
Along the rugged coastlines and sheltered bays of the United Kingdom, scattering ashes at sea is a time-honored way for families to say farewell. The practice taps into a deep cultural connection to the ocean — a symbol of vastness, continuity, and freedom.
Sea Scatterings: A Tribute on the Open Water
Often, families charter small boats, sometimes with the help of specialized providers, to take them out beyond the shore. There, in the presence of rolling waves and open sky, ashes are gently released into the water.
This moment is usually marked by quiet reflection, readings of poetry or scripture, or the tolling of a bell—a naval tradition that signals a respectful goodbye. The ebb and flow of the tide carry the ashes outward, symbolizing the final journey of a life lived — blending with the sea’s timeless rhythm.
For many, the sea scattering ceremony offers a sense of peace, a way to feel connected to the natural world and to the enduring cycle of life.
Land-Based Memorials: Growing Tributes to Loved Ones
On land, families often scatter ashes in places that held personal meaning — a favorite hillside, a garden filled with memories, or a countryside meadow. It’s increasingly common to plant trees, wildflowers, or other native plants where ashes have been scattered.
These living memorials create a space that grows and changes with the seasons, offering a lasting tribute that evolves naturally over time.
Balancing Tradition and Personalization
Whether at sea or on land, these ceremonies balance tradition and personalization. They invite family and friends to gather, share stories, and find comfort in a setting that reflects the spirit of the departed.
The United Kingdom’s approach to ash scattering is grounded in respect for both the individual and the environment — ensuring that farewells are both meaningful and mindful.
Legal Tips for Ash Scattering in the United Kingdom
Permission is key: You must obtain permission before scattering ashes on private land. For public land, check with the local council or governing authority to understand any specific regulations.
Scattering at sea: The UK government permits ash scattering at sea without a license, provided it’s done at least 50 meters (about 164 feet) from the shore. Many families use licensed providers or charter boats for these ceremonies.
Respect protected areas: Certain sites, such as National Parks or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, may have their own rules. Always confirm before scattering ashes in these locations.
Environmental considerations: Avoid scattering ashes near water intakes, drinking water sources, or conservation areas to protect wildlife and water quality.
Recommended Ash Scattering Locations in the UK
The Cornish Coast, Cornwall: Known for its dramatic cliffs and serene coves, this area offers breathtaking sea scattering opportunities with ample boat charters available.
The Lake District, Cumbria: England’s largest national park, filled with lakes, hills, and tranquil spots perfect for scattering ashes on land or by water.
The Scottish Highlands: Remote, wild, and stunning, the Highlands provide meaningful natural backdrops for families wanting a peaceful farewell.
Jurassic Coast, Dorset: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with rugged coastline and historical significance, offering unique sea and land scattering spots.
The South Downs, Sussex: Rolling hills and open countryside make for beautiful land-based memorial sites where ashes can be scattered or trees planted.
🌿 See Available National Park Destinations →
📞 Speak to a Memorial Specialist: (515) 206-4845
bonaventurememorial@gmail.com
Switzerland Ash Scattering Traditions: Embracing Nature’s Serenity
In the serene landscapes of Switzerland, where the Alps cradle the sky and forests whisper ancient tales, a profound tradition unfolds — the scattering of human ashes in nature. This practice, deeply rooted in Swiss culture, offers a final act of communion with the earth, allowing the departed to merge with the very elements they cherished in life.
Honoring Loved Ones in Switzerland’s Forests
Imagine standing at the edge of a tranquil Swiss forest, the air crisp and filled with the scent of pine. Here, amidst the towering trees, families gather to honor their loved ones. With reverence, they release the ashes into the forest floor, where they are absorbed by the roots of ancient trees, becoming part of the living tapestry of the woodland.
Scattering Ashes Over Pristine Glaciers and Alpine Peaks
Alternatively, one might choose to scatter ashes over a pristine glacier, where the icy expanse reflects the purity of the moment. As the ashes drift upon the wind, they are carried across the snow-covered peaks, symbolizing a journey into eternity.
A Celebration of Life and Connection to Nature
This tradition is not merely a ritual; it is a celebration of life and a testament to the enduring bond between humanity and nature. It offers solace to those who seek a meaningful farewell, knowing that their loved ones have returned to the embrace of the earth.
Respecting Switzerland’s Natural Beauty Through Ash Scattering
In Switzerland, the practice of scattering ashes in nature is embraced with grace and respect, ensuring that the natural beauty of the land remains unspoiled. It is a harmonious blend of remembrance and renewal, where the cycle of life continues in the most beautiful of ways.
Legal Considerations
No general prohibition on ash scattering — scattering is allowed in most natural areas if done respectfully and discreetly.
Permissions may be required for scattering on private land or in protected areas such as Swiss national parks (Swiss Federal Office for the Environment).
Popular locations include lakes, rivers, alpine slopes, and forests.
Many families from Germany, France, and Italy choose Switzerland for its beautiful and flexible options.
Practical Tips for Families
Select the season thoughtfully — alpine wildflowers in summer or autumn colors along lakes create a serene atmosphere.
Ensure proper documentation and permits for international transport of ashes and scattering (Swiss customs info on cremated remains).
Consider scenic locations such as Lake Geneva’s shores, the Matterhorn region, or secluded alpine valleys for a meaningful farewell.
Recommended Ash Scattering Locations in Switzerland
Switzerland’s diverse landscapes offer families a range of beautiful and meaningful settings to honor their loved ones. Whether you prefer tranquil lakesides, serene alpine meadows, or quiet forests, these locations provide a fitting backdrop for a farewell that blends nature and memory.
Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)
The vast, shimmering expanse of Lake Geneva stretches between Switzerland and France, framed by vineyards and the towering Alps. Scattering ashes here offers a peaceful, reflective atmosphere where the water’s gentle lapping echoes the continuity of life. Several nearby towns, like Montreux and Lausanne, provide easy access for memorial gatherings.
The Swiss Alps — Valais and Bernese Oberland
Majestic peaks, wildflower-carpeted meadows, and crisp mountain air make the Swiss Alps a profoundly moving place for scattering ashes. Locations near Zermatt or Interlaken offer panoramic views of iconic summits such as the Matterhorn and Eiger, making it a memorable farewell surrounded by grandeur and silence.
Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee)
Nestled among forested hills and snow-capped mountains, Lake Lucerne is known for its clear waters and charming lakeside villages. Its calm shores provide a private and contemplative space, perfect for families seeking an intimate scattering experience.
Jura Mountains and Aargau Forests
For those drawn to gentler landscapes, the rolling hills of the Jura Mountains and the expansive woodlands of Aargau offer serene forests and meadows. These less frequented areas create quiet, natural settings where ashes can be scattered in harmony with the rhythms of the earth.
Rhine Falls Vicinity
Near the spectacular Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, families can find spots along the riverbanks or nearby woodlands. The powerful, flowing water symbolizes strength and renewal — a fitting metaphor for life’s ongoing journey.
🌿 See Available National Park Destinations →
📞 Speak to a Memorial Specialist: (515) 206-4845
bonaventurememorial@gmail.com
India: River Ceremonies and Collective Mourning
India Ash Scattering Traditions: Sacred Rivers and Spiritual Journeys
In India, the journey from life to afterlife is deeply intertwined with water—especially the sacred rivers that have shaped the spiritual and cultural fabric of the nation for millennia. Among these, the Ganges River holds a place of profound reverence, believed to be not just a river but a living goddess, a purifier of sins, and a gateway to liberation.
The Spiritual Significance of Ash Scattering in Indian Culture
The final rites of funerals often culminate in the scattering of ashes into such sacred waters, a practice steeped in ancient tradition and spiritual significance. This ritual is more than a physical act; it is a passage imbued with profound meaning.
Ceremonial Practices Along the Riverbanks
Family members gather along riverbanks, often after performing ceremonial baths and cleansing rites, themselves immersing in the holy waters to purify body and soul. As the ashes are gently released into the flowing river, they are accompanied by rhythmic chanting of mantras and prayers—calls to the divine, invoking peace and liberation for the departed soul.
Offerings of flowers, rice, and incense are cast into the water, creating a tapestry of color and fragrance that honors the cycle of life and death.
A Collective Experience of Mourning and Hope
This gathering is not just a private moment but a collective experience of mourning and hope. Friends, relatives, and community members come together, sharing grief but also reinforcing the faith that death is not an end but a transformation.
The river’s current carries the ashes onward, symbolizing the soul’s release from earthly bonds and its journey toward moksha—spiritual freedom.
India: Tips, Legal Guidance, and Meaningful Places to Scatter Ashes
In India, the act of scattering ashes is deeply intertwined with cultural, religious, and spiritual traditions that span thousands of years. Families often choose sacred rivers, especially the Ganges, to release ashes in ceremonies that symbolize purification and the soul’s journey beyond the physical world. While customs vary by region and religion, there are practical and legal considerations to keep in mind.
Legal and Cultural Considerations
Permissions and environmental concerns: While scattering ashes in rivers like the Ganges is a long-standing practice, some local authorities now regulate these rites to protect water quality. In urban centers, certain restrictions may apply, so it’s important to consult with local officials or trusted funeral service providers.
Respect for religious customs: Many families perform ceremonial baths, prayers (pujas), and offerings alongside ash scattering. Observing these customs ensures a respectful and meaningful farewell.
Environmental awareness: Consider using biodegradable urns or natural materials for scattering to minimize ecological impact.
Practical Tips for Families
Coordinate with local priests or guides who understand both ritual and legal aspects.
Prepare for communal gatherings, as these rites often involve extended family and community members sharing in mourning and support.
Select safe and accessible locations, particularly when traveling to remote or sacred sites.
Meaningful Places to Scatter Ashes in India
The Ganges River (Ganga): The most sacred river in Hinduism, believed to purify the soul and grant moksha (liberation). Cities like Varanasi, Haridwar, and Rishikesh are traditional pilgrimage sites where ashes are released.
Yamuna River: Another significant river, especially near Delhi and Agra, where some families choose to perform rites.
Saraswati River (Mythical/modern sites): While considered mythical, some families honor the Saraswati through ceremonies in places where its waters are believed to flow underground.
Backwaters of Kerala: For a serene, nature-connected farewell, the tranquil backwaters offer an intimate setting for scattering ashes.
Himalayan mountain streams: Remote, pristine streams in the Himalayas provide sacred spaces for families desiring a private, peaceful ceremony.
Māori Ash Scattering Traditions in New Zealand: Honoring Whenua and Whakapapa
In New Zealand, the Māori people hold a profound connection to their land — whenua — not just as a physical place, but as the very foundation of identity and belonging. When it comes to farewells, this connection shapes the rituals surrounding death and remembrance, especially through the tangihanga, or funeral ceremonies, which are deeply communal, ceremonial, and spiritually rich.
Tangihanga: Communal Mourning and Celebration
During tangihanga, families, friends, and community gather to mourn, celebrate, and support one another. The rituals blend storytelling, prayer (karakia), and song (waiata) — creating a space where grief and healing coexist.
Returning Ashes to the Whenua: A Symbolic Homecoming
Central to these ceremonies is the practice of returning the deceased’s ashes to the land, often in sacred native bush or on ancestral grounds. This act is not simply scattering ashes; it is a symbolic homecoming, a return to the whenua that nurtured generations before and will sustain those who come after.
Karakia and Waiata: Spiritual Connection Through Prayer and Song
The scattering of ashes is accompanied by karakia, traditional prayers that invoke spiritual protection and guidance, calling on ancestors and the natural forces to welcome the departed. These prayers are heartfelt, weaving a spiritual thread that connects the living and the dead.
Alongside the prayers, waiata — traditional songs — are sung to honor the ancestors and to affirm the enduring bonds between past, present, and future generations. The melodies carry stories, histories, and blessings, binding families together across time.
Whakapapa: Genealogy and the Unbreakable Link Between People and Place
This tradition goes beyond the act itself. It emphasizes whakapapa — genealogy and ancestry — and the unbreakable link between people and place. By returning ashes to the whenua, Māori families reaffirm their belonging and commitment to the land that defines their heritage.
It is a gesture of continuity, respect, and care, ensuring that each farewell is also a new beginning, rooted in the soil and spirit of their ancestors.
The Natural World as a Living Memorial
Through these rituals, the natural world becomes a living memorial. The trees, streams, and earth hold the essence of those who have passed, reminding all who witness the ceremony that life, death, and rebirth are intimately entwined within the land itself.
New Zealand: Legal Guidance, Practical Tips, and Meaningful Scattering Locations
In New Zealand, scattering ashes is a widely accepted and meaningful way to honor loved ones, deeply connected to the land (whenua) and cultural traditions, particularly among the Māori people. While the practice is flexible, certain legal and environmental guidelines ensure respect for natural spaces and communities.
Legal Considerations
Permitted in most natural areas: Ashes can be scattered on public or private land with permission from landowners or relevant authorities.
Restrictions in national parks and reserves: Some conservation areas require permits or have specific rules—contact the Department of Conservation for guidance.
No permit needed on private land if owner consents, but local council regulations may apply in some areas.
Practical Tips for Families
Coordinate with local iwi (tribes) when scattering ashes on culturally significant land, honoring Māori protocols such as karakia (prayers).
Choose biodegradable urns to minimize environmental impact.
Plan ceremonies to include waiata (songs) and storytelling, which are integral parts of Māori tangihanga (funeral) traditions.
Consider weather and seasonality—New Zealand’s varied climates can influence the timing and mood of a scattering ceremony.
Recommended Scattering Locations
Native bush and forests: Scattering ashes in native bushland honors the natural environment and ancestral connections.
Mountains and peaks: Iconic places like Aoraki / Mount Cook offer dramatic, inspiring settings that reflect the grandeur of life.
Coastal beaches and bays: New Zealand’s rugged coastline provides peaceful spots where ashes may be scattered to meet the sea.
Lakes and rivers: Locations such as Lake Taupō or the Whanganui River carry special spiritual significance for many Māori and other New Zealanders.
🌿 See Available National Park Destinations →
Start Planning Your National Parks Ash Scattering Ceremony Today
Let BONAVENTURE guide you through a compassionate, respectful farewell that honors your loved one amid America’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Visit DestinationScattering.com to explore packages and start your journey.
🌿 See Available National Park Destinations →
📞 Speak to a Memorial Specialist: (515) 206-4845
bonaventurememorial@gmail.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Sarah-Marie Sherbon is a writer, mother, and a co-founder of BONAVENTURE, a destination ash scattering service devoted to helping families say goodbye in places that still feel sacred.
Her reverence for the wild was shaped over years in the national parks—kayaking through the rugged archipelago of Isle Royale, hiking beneath the emerald ballet of light in Mount Rainier’s rainforest, and breathing in the wildflower-sweetened stillness of Yellowstone’s hidden places. Today, she draws on those experiences to guide families toward tributes rooted in beauty, memory, and return—because some goodbyes deserve a view that takes your breath away.
FAMILY LEGACY IN THE NATIONAL PARKS
Bonaventure was born from generations spent walking the wild edges of this country—serving as park rangers, guides, and stewards of America’s most sacred landscapes. Together, we’ve planned ceremonies for royalty, navigated avalanches with radios slung over our shoulders, and stood beneath the northern lights waiting for the hush before dawn.
Our family has nearly a century of combined experience in the National Parks. We've climbed peaks, captained sailboats, and led thousands of guests through these extraordinary places. BONAVENTURE is our way of passing that reverence on—crafting custom tributes that honor each life with beauty, excellence, and care.
But through it all, what’s endured is story. The stories of those who came to these places to remember. To return. To let go.
We created BONAVENTURE to offer something worthy of that final chapter: a farewell not rushed or transactional, but reverent. Custom tributes crafted with intention. Ash scatterings carried out with park permission, environmental care, and deep personal respect.
We are foremost a family of storytellers. And in the story, the ending is what matters most.
For National Park Scattering: Permits & Resources
If you're considering a National Park as your scattering site, be sure to follow proper procedures. BONAVENTURE handles permits for our services, but families should be aware of:
