About Us | A Dignified Pet Crematory in Skokie, IL
we promise reverent, attentive care for your cherished companion.
Family-Owned & Operated
Peter Haben
Peter Haben, Manager
Certified Crematory Operator
Born and raised in Skokie, Peter’s background showcases his commitment to the well-being of his hometown – through his work at Haben Funeral Home and during his 15-year tenure at a local government agency. At Cherished Companions, Peter dedicates his time to helping families gain peace and closure after experiencing the loss of a pet – a beloved member of the family.
Peter and his wife Crystal have filled their home with four cherished companions: a Golden Retriever, a rescue Yellow Lab, and two rescue orange tabby cats. In his free time, Peter can be found enjoying the outdoors or competing on the pickleball court.
Staff
John W. Haben, Founder
Certified Crematory Operator | Licensed Funeral Director
A third generation Licensed Funeral Director, Certified Crematory Operator and pet owner, John has learned that the loss of an animal companion is as traumatic as the loss of any other member of a family. The only cremation provider in the area with a professional degree and a background in death, dying, and loss, Cherished Companions Dignified Pet Crematory is an on-site crematory exclusively for pets, and the only one of its kind in the whole area. We work with a family who has lost a pet just as we would any family who has lost a loved one… with sensitivity, care, and compassion, just as we have with our human families since 1923.
Clare Haben Philipchuck
Clare Haben Philipchuck
Clare is dedicated to our mission to provide empathy and respect for beloved pets after their passing. She brings a unique blend of medical expertise and heartfelt compassion to her role at Cherished Companions. With a background as a Registered Nurse, Clare has experience providing care and support to human patients and their families during difficult times. This has instilled an understanding of the grief process and the importance of showing empathy when facing loss. Clare grew up around funeral service in a house full of pets. Her love of dogs has always been a constant in her life. She understands the pain of loss and the significance of honoring the memory of a cherished companion.
Crystal Haben
Crystal Haben
Crystal’s warm and compassionate nature provides comfort to grieving families. A pet parent herself, Crystal has experienced the heartache of losing her own beloved pets and strives to provide grieving families with a supportive and caring environment. Crystal and her husband Peter have two cats, Pumpkin and Ollie, as well as two dogs, Scout and Poppy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are your staff trained and certified?
How do you ensure I receive only my pet’s ashes?
We maintain strict ID tagging, logging at each hand‑off, closed‑door controls, and final verification before packaging.
Do you offer same day or expedited services?
Yes, though an exact turnaround time will be subject to scheduling and after‑hours availability. Please call to confirm.
What areas do you serve?
We support families throughout the Skokie/Evanston area, Chicago, and the Chicago suburbs (including Niles, Park Ridge, Morton Grove, Des Plaines, Wilmette, Glenview, Golf & more). Our pickup and delivery services are available anywhere within 30 miles of our location at 8053 Niles Center Rd – Skokie, IL 60077.
Do you work directly with veterinary clinics?
Yes, we can provide animal cremation services to local veterinary clinics, animal shelters or rescue groups – following the same standards of compassionate care and chain‑of‑custody procedures that we provide to local families.
