Patent attributes
A combination memorial and columbarium having a headstone, and a base supporting the headstone. At least one chamber for holding a cremation urn and/or the cremated remains of an individual is formed either in the headstone or the base. The chamber has an opening which is sealed either permanently or with a removable seal. In certain embodiments, the chamber is located in the headstone, and the opening may be plugged with a removable seal, or the opening may be sealed by the base of the monument. In another embodiment, the chamber is formed in the base, and the bottom portion of the headstone forms the seal for the chamber when the headstone is placed on the base. In an embodiment of the invention, one deceased person is interned in the earth ahead of the headstone, and the cremated remains of another deceased are secured in the chamber. The chamber may also be adapted to hold a DNA sample of the cremated individual for future family medical reference.