Hamilton County has a devoted place for comfort, reflection and hope for those who have lost a child. Many of the estimated 400 visitors attending the Angel of Hope dedication in Noblesville’s Forest Park on May 4 were grieving family members and friends of children or grandchildren who have died.
“It’s a great landmark for Noblesville. It turned out better than I anticipated. Everyone participating has done a wonderful job,” said Gary Warren, memorial designer.
On June 1, 2008 Brenda and Kirk Forbes lost their 23-year-old daughter Kristen to cervical cancer. The very next month Alice Hall lost her daughter, Megan, in an auto accident. Two years later Brandi Bates lost her son, Xander, at birth. Bates’ experience with the Angel of Hope in Avon inspired Kirk to try to bring one to Noblesville. Three and a half years later the dream became a reality.
“When you lose your child a lot of things go through your mind. You look for answers that can’t be answered. We know someday we will see Kristen again. That is our hope,” Kirk said. “May the Angel of Hope be a garden of solemn and peace for everyone.”
The garden, which is paved with 160 bricks engraved with the names of lost children, is situated in a quiet wooded area. The non-denominational memorial’s centerpiece is the statue of a child angel with extended arms of welcome. The word “Hope” is written in her right wing.
“Out of sorrow and tragedy there is opportunity for good to rise,” Noblesville Mayor John Ditslear said. “Since 1925 Forest Park has been a place enjoyed by children year after year. It seems only fitting there would be a place within the park to remember children that left us too soon.”
“Forest Park is a special place and the Angel of Hope makes it even more special of a place,” Parks Director Brandon Bennett said. “We hope you spend plenty of time here and may the angel give you hope like it’s meant to.”
Kirk said that he plans to hold dedications twice a year to remember children as engraved bricks will continue to be sold. He has other ideas for improving the site including a ramp pathway from the parking lot to the memorial and a permanent sign.
“The important part is done but there is still some work to do,” he said.
For more information, call 695-3551 or visit Angel of Hope Memorial-Noblesville Indiana Facebook page.
