Five years ago, Nicki Snodderly, BS, database specialist, Parkview Heart Institute, introduced the Remembrance Tree event to Parkview.
“I was inspired to hold something like this when my mom passed away,” Nicki shared. “She died at 54 from a rare lung disease. She was a decorated RN of 32 years at Adams Memorial Hospital, and a graduate of the Parkview School of Nursing in 1975. She graduated in the top 10 of her class and has trained/worked with many of the nurses at Parkview today.”
On December 19, Nicki and team put a Christmas tree on display in the Parkview Heart Institute lobby and invited those who wished to honor a deceased friend or family member to come and place an ornament with their loved one’s name on the tree’s branches. Guests enjoyed the sounds of several local choirs, including the Parkview Singers, treats and support from Parkview staff. “Through this event, I hope to bring some peace to families. The holiday season is always the hardest. I wanted to do something that would bring people together, recognize their loved ones and offer a way to celebrate them even though they can’t be here.”
This event is open to anyone who has ever suffered a loss and has dealt with the hurt of not having a loved one around during the holidays. “The tree is to celebrate the life that their loved one lived. When you visit the tree, you never know who you might cross paths with. It may be the person who had the exact words of encouragement you needed. You may form a new relationship with a total stranger who has gone through the battle of loss, just like you did. You might be the person that shed a little light on someone who really needed it at that time. Christmas is a time of giving. If taking a few minutes to visit the tree, and maybe exchange a few words with someone, will give them peace to get through the next day, then you have given the best gift one can give. Mending a broken heart is going above and beyond excellent service at Parkview.”
Curtis Smith, Corporate Director of Community Engagement, Parkview Health, began the event with a blessing. “We pray that we cherish this holiday with those we still have, and we pray you fill the void in our hearts left by those we have lost,” he said. “We invite you in, Lord. You know the number of hairs on our heads and you know the end of each of our stories before they ever begin. Help us to lean on your presence as a comfort. Help us to be your light in a dark and hurting world. We thank you, Lord God, and lift this prayer up to you.”
Doyle Charles Snodderly
Every year, Parkview honors one family. This year, the tribute was to Doyle Charles Snodderly, father of Nicki’s husband, Matthias. Doyle served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He was based on both the USS Yorktown and the USS Blue. On December 7, 1941, Doyle’s ship was bombed at Pearl Harbor. He survived and was given two Purple Hearts for his brave and heroic acts, which saved the lives of many. Doyle was hospitalized for 145 days to recover from the injuries he sustained in the bombings.
Doyle returned home to serve as a police officer and marry his sweetheart. He eventually left law enforcement to serve as a pastor for 53 years. In 1954, Doyle started one of the first multicultural churches in Fort Wayne, The Southside Church of God. He was a father of 11 children and a true treasure for the community.
Doyle died in 1996, but the memory of his remarkable life lives on and will continue to do so through the legacy of his family and friends forever.
“Matthias is so proud of his dad,” Nicki said. “We chose to honor him this year because a Purple Heart recipient deserves to be recognized every day we have freedom. It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to thank him for his service and remember others who have done or are doing the same.”
Matthias, who didn’t know his father was being honored until the morning of the event, was incredibly touched by the gesture. “It really means the world to me,” he said. “Remembrance is still here today. This event brings out all of the best memories and reminds me that they truly will last forever. I’m really thankful.”
