In a warehouse situated in Anchorage, Rachel Bernhardt gently placed the body of a cherished Pomeranian named Wiley into a metal chamber. Known for his spirited nature and cunning demeanor, Wiley had reached the age of 17 before passing away.

The Process of Water Cremation

Surrounding Wiley’s body with rose petals, Bernhardt carefully lowered the platform using a chain pulley into the chamber. Within the next chamber, she poured potassium hydroxide, a highly alkaline chemical, initiating the process of “water cremation” or “aquamation,” which breaks down the body using fluid instead of heat. After closing the lid and activating the machine, it filled with water.

Approximately 18 hours later, Bernhardt would return to complete the process, drying the remains and placing them in a container for the family of the deceased pet.

Advocating for Natural Death Care Choices

Bernhardt recently began providing water cremations for pets in her new warehouse space in Anchorage. While conventional death care often involves the use of chemicals, plastic, and energy, there is a growing national movement towards natural burial, body composting, and low-energy cremation. Bernhardt is committed to offering these choices to the community, beginning with pets.

Personal Journey and Advocacy

With years of experience in organ and tissue donation programs, Bernhardt has developed a profound understanding of the intersections between healthcare and death care. Her personal experience with the loss of a family member served as a catalyst for her advocacy efforts.

Finding solace in the national movement towards natural death care, Bernhardt seeks to offer alternatives beyond conventional burial and cremation. She organizes a regular meetup in Anchorage called a “death cafe” to facilitate conversations about death and the choices available.

Rachel Bernhardt

 

Dreaming Big: Creating a Natural Burial Cemetery

In addition to her water cremation business, Bernhardt is working towards establishing a natural burial cemetery in Anchorage. Bodies interred there will not be embalmed and will be wrapped in simple cloth instead of coffins. Bernhardt envisions a low-density conservation burial ground, where gravesites blend harmoniously with the surrounding ecosystem.

Community Interest and Environmental Consciousness

Stephanie Zaborac-Reed, one of the individuals on the waitlist for Bernhardt’s natural burial cemetery, emphasizes the importance of environmentally-friendly burial options. Natural burial aligns with her values and offers a gentle alternative to conventional practices.

A Vision for the Future

Bernhardt’s natural burial cemetery, pending approval from the city, aims to transform attitudes towards death in the community. With a focus on sustainability and community involvement, Bernhardt hopes to provide meaningful choices for end-of-life care in Anchorage.