Respect for the Donor
Survivors may derive comfort from the knowledge that respect for those who have donated their bodies is maintained at all times. The indispensable contribution that body donors have made is fully recognized. The teaching laboratories are situated in a restricted area and only medical and dental students, faculty, staff, or other students of the health professions are authorized to use the facility.
Uniform Anatomical Gift Act
For legal details, please see the Uniform Anatomical Gift Act.
Diposition of Remains and Memorial Service
Following the study of the body, the remains are cremated. It is possible for ashes to be returned to the donor's family or a funeral director for private burial. Request for the return of the ashes must be made in writing at the time the donor is transported to the Medical School, or shortly thereafter.
If the next of kin requests the ashes to be buried at the University of Michigan plot, the ashes will be interred in the University of Michigan burial plot located at the Washtenong Memorial Park approximately two miles north of Ann Arbor. A graveside memorial service is held for donors each fall. Medical students are involved with all aspects of the ceremony. Family and friends of all donors are invited; approximately to 1,000 people attend each year to share memories and help with the healing process.
To view images of our past Memorial Services, please visit the Gallery.