Iles Westover Funeral Home
5.0(205)
6337 Hickman Rd, Des Moines, IA 50322
CremationDirect Cremation+6
Showing 8 funeral homes across 1 city in Iowa.
6337 Hickman Rd, Des Moines, IA 50322
3211 Hubbell Ave, Des Moines, IA 50317
2121 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312
3500 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313
4400 Merle Hay Rd, Des Moines, IA 50310
Iowa funeral homes are regulated by the Iowa Department of Public Health's Bureau of Professional Licensure. Funeral directors and establishments must maintain proper licensure and adhere to state standards for embalming, cremation, and burial services. Consumers may verify licenses through the Iowa Professional Licensing Bureau.
Funeral costs in Iowa vary based on service type, merchandise selection, and location within the state. Cremation services generally cost less than traditional burial with casket and cemetery arrangements. Iowa families are encouraged to request itemized price lists from multiple funeral homes to compare options.
Iowa permits both traditional burial and cremation, with cremation rates increasing statewide. Green burial options are available at select cemeteries, and scattering ashes is permitted on private property with owner consent. Iowa law requires authorization forms for cremation, typically signed by the next of kin or authorized agent.
With 8 funeral homes listed across Iowa, families should consider location, services offered, pricing transparency, and reputation when selecting a provider. The Federal Trade Commission's Funeral Rule guarantees Iowa consumers the right to receive price information over the phone and an itemized General Price List in person. Reading reviews and visiting facilities can help inform this important decision.
Pre-planning in Iowa allows individuals to document their wishes and potentially lock in current pricing through prepaid funeral contracts. Iowa regulates prepaid funeral trusts and insurance-funded arrangements to protect consumer funds. Residents should review contract terms carefully and ensure the funeral home is properly licensed before entering any agreement.
Veterans in Iowa may be eligible for burial benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, including free burial in a national cemetery, a government-furnished headstone or marker, and a burial flag. Iowa has two national cemeteries: Rock Island National Cemetery and Keokuk National Cemetery. Veterans should contact the VA or their funeral director to verify eligibility and arrange honors.