Lakeside Columbarium
Outdoor Serenity in Wildwood Valley Gardens
Responding to the public's increasing preference for cremation, Bellefontaine established the Lakeside Columbarium as its second cremation offering. It is situated between Cascade and Cypress Lakes in the beautifully landscaped Wildwood Valley Gardens, providing a tranquil outdoor placement option for cremated remains. This contemporary structure features a fountain, flowing pools, and an arbor with benches for contemplation.
What is a Columbarium?
For thousands of years, civilizations have built resting grounds—cemeteries—as permanent places to inter and remember their loved ones. In addition to offering traditional ground burial, many cemeteries have a columbarium, which is a building or structure dedicated to holding the remains of those who have chosen cremation. Urns holding cremated remains are placed into individual compartments, known as niches, within the columbarium. Bellefontaine offers two distinct columbaria: the indoor, historic Hotchkiss Chapel and the open-air Lakeside Columbarium in Wildwood Valley.
Lakeside Columbarium Overview
The Lakeside Columbarium is nestled between two lakes and along our brook. The open-air setting is designed as a serene, reflective space for family and friends. Its inner courtyard has benches and a fountain for resting and contemplation, while paths wind through the area for strolling and enjoyment of the landscape.
- Niches: The Columbarium contains 395 niches for individual or companion placement. Niches are set into circular walls surrounding the courtyard and fountain.
- Capacity: Niche measurements are 12×12×12 inches. Urns must be 1,187 inches or less. Each niche holds up to two sets of cremated remains.
- Seating: The inner courtyard includes five benches and a fountain for quiet reflection.
- Other Placement: In addition to niches, the surrounding Wildwood Valley Gardens offer traditional ground interment of cremated remains.
Events & Memorial Services
The Lakeside Columbarium and the surrounding Wildwood Valley Gardens offer a beautiful and unique location for services and gatherings. The setting is ideal as a gathering place before or after an inurnment, for a serene standalone memorial service, or even for other private events, including concerts, private gatherings, or group meetings. Our team is happy to assist in planning your service or event, including arranging for caterers, florists, musicians, and other service providers.
Niche Pricing and Inscription Details
- Single Niche Right $4,000 Includes inscription on the granite faceplate
- Second Right of Inurnment $1,500 This fee secures placement for a second person in the same niche
- Niche Inscription Included | Inscription is limited to six lines of text, up to twenty characters per line
- Benches $30,000 Benches hold up to twenty urns and include commemorative inscription