Abstract: An improved multi-element casket comprising a facade of an outer casket shell having a top and sidewalls is disclosed. A container bottom is configured and dimensioned to be disposed within the outer casket shell with the sidewalls of the outer casket shell extending around the container bottom. Support means is provided for supporting the container bottom within the outer casket shell. This support means comprises at least first and second mating support elements which interlock with each other and a planar support member positioned above them. Sheet means is configured, dimensioned and positioned to lie above the bottom of the container bottom and adjacent to sidewalls of the container bottom. Separator means, separate from the sheet means, is provided for supporting the sheet means in spaced relationship to the bottom of the container bottom.

Abstract: A multi-element casket, particularly useful for services involving the cremation of the deceased is disclosed. The casket comprises a container bottom configured and dimensioned to contain suitable bedding and the deceased. The container bottom is supported by a platform which also supports a casket shell. The casket shell is placed over the container bottom and has sidewalls which are configured and dimensioned to extend around the container bottom and be supported by the platform, thus giving the appearance of a conventional casket. When the deceased is to be cremated, the shell is raised and the container bottom, containing the deceased and the bedding, is covered and sent to the crematory.