About
The inspiration for The Columbarium came many years ago as faithful Old Boys spoke of their devotion and affinity for St. John’s Northwestern. Dedicated on September 29, 2001, The Columbarium was built to give alumni, family of alumni, faculty and staff, and friends a place to be memorialized.
The Columbarium is located adjacent to the Noble Victory Memorial Chapel of St. John the Divine, which is the center of worship and moral education that is instrumental in shaping the lives of our cadets and students.
The Memorial Wall at The Columbarium
Honor the memory of an old roommate, favorite teacher, coach or loved one. Bronze plaques are available in 4″ x 8″ and 8″ x 8″ to be forever placed on The Memorial Wall at The Columbarium.
Committal Services
The Columbarium and Scattering Ground committal services are available to you and your family. Our staff is sensitive to your personal needs and can assist you in pre-planning your service or at time of need.
Our selection of complimentary services when purchasing a niche or the scattering grounds includes:
- Custom bronze faceplate or plaque
- Religious ceremony performed by our Chaplain
For more information, contact columbarium@sjnacademies.org
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a columbarium?
A columbarium is a place for final committal of cremated remains (cremains) on dignified and consecrated ground. Dating back to ancient times, the word “columbarium” comes from the translated Latin word meaning “dovecote.” The word originated from how doves would nest in small niches in the mountains. The more common use of this word now refers to burial niches, most often above ground or contained within an architectural structure.
Are my cremains protected?
Yes. The Columbarium is sanctioned and approved as a cemetery according to Wisconsin law and thereby protected by the rules and regulations that govern them. A percentage of each niche purchase is set aside for the perpetual care of The Columbarium.
Why should I consider a niche at St. John’s Northwestern Academies?
There are many situations where individuals may want to choose a niche at the Columbarium. We live in a transient society where the average individual moves 11 times over their lifetime. The Columbarium is able to offer individuals a final resting place that pays tribute to the patriotic, character and spiritual values that are part of our legacy.
If I have burial plans in place and paid for elsewhere, can I still purchase a niche?
Yes. Some have done so and placed special mementos (i.e., class ring, senior photo, ribbons, medals) in their niche.
What are the costs of a niche and the scattering grounds?
The cost of a niche ranges from $2,300-$5,500 depending on the Wall and location that is chosen. The cost to use the scattering grounds is $1,500. 60% of your niche or scattering ground purchase is tax-deductible.
Are there any extra fees involved when purchasing a niche or the scattering ground for burial purposes?
There are no additional fees. Your purchase of a niche includes a custom bronze niche faceplate or plaque. Your purchase to use the scattering grounds includes an inscribed bronze plate, which is affixed to the stone tablet in the designated scattering grounds area. The Columbarium and scattering ground purchases also include a committal service and our chaplain as an officiate.