There is a solemn beauty to scattering ashes in nature, and Lakewood elevates this experience with the introduction of Waterside, a serene new spot on the south shore of our private lake. The Waterside Terrace, Pier and Memorial Monument make a lovely space to gather with family and friends for a personalized Scattering Ceremony.
A perfect place for reflection
Since Waterside opened earlier this spring, families have shared stories of holding Scattering Ceremonies. Kelly Leahy, Director of Family Services, helped a woman who had kept her brother’s ashes in an urn for several years. “She’d always planned to scatter the ashes at their family cabin,” Kelly explains, “but after her brother’s death, the family sold that place.” Kelly continues, “As soon as she saw the Waterside Terrace and Pier, she knew scattering his ashes there would be the perfect way to honor her brother.”
Thoughtfully designed ceremonies
Each Scattering Ceremony at Lakewood includes the presence and guidance of a member of our Family Services Team. The terrace is large enough to hold up to 25 people and can be arranged with up to 12 chairs. A tent, display table, floral stands and a wireless speaker are also available.
The Waterside Pier, fitted with a bench, makes it easy for family members to take part in the scattering. The pier comfortably holds 10 – 12 people at a time.
Waterside Memorial Monument
Seth Kaltwasser, Family Services Manager, shares that after a family chose a Scattering Ceremony, they decided to complement that with an engraved plaque on the new Waterside Memorial Monument. “What they liked most,” Seth says, “was the connection they felt to this beautiful spot. They told me it would be a place they’d want to come back to.”
Families who choose a Scattering Ceremony or a Waterside Memorial Monument plaque, or both, will also have a permanent record of the name and life dates included in Lakewood’s searchable website database.
Visitors are welcome to enjoy Waterside
When Waterside is not being used for a private ceremony, Lakewood families and visitors are welcome to walk out onto the pier, rest on benches and enjoy the peaceful views for quiet moments of reflection.
Learn more
If you would like to learn more about how you can honor your loved one at Waterside, schedule a private appointment by emailing info@lakewoodcemetery.org or calling 612-822-2171.
