We know that this is a subject no one likes to discuss but at some point we all have to. It is especially important to understand the procedures required in Spain as they may differ from those at home.

We made contact with Balbi Alvarez Ramos at the Tanatorio Crematorio on the Javea/Gata road, just outside of Javea. The Crematorio is owned and operated by three partners, providing a service to the Valencian community. In fact an ancestor of one of the partners started the business in Javea over 100 years ago.

Balbi, assisted by his son, runs the new and purpose-built modern facility, surrounded by private gardens. They both speak fluent English having lived in the UK for 18 years and fully understand the difficulties which can arise for ex-pats, especially if arrangements for repatriation are required.
In the event of bereavement, one phone call to the Crematorio is all that is needed.

Balbi and his partners will give their personal attention to all the arrangements including a house call by a doctor, collection of the deceased and issue of the death certificate.

Additionally, they will take care of the flowers, cars, church/chapel, caskets/urns, translation services and anything else which may be needed. After that first phone call to Balbi and his partners, all the client need do is contact their relatives. Arrangements can be made to delay the funeral for a few days until family members arrive from the UK or elsewhere.

For those who wish to plan ahead and further minimise the stress to their family, a pre-payment plan is available.