Celebration Saturday for Renovated Angel of Hope Garden
The Angel of Hope Garden in Maple Grove has given peace to many families mourning the loss of a child. It’s where Connie Johnson comes to remember her son, Danny, who was killed in a horrific car accident in 2004.
“The loss of a child is like no other loss,” said Johnson. “He had just graduated from Park Center High School and was on his way that following fall to St. Cloud University.”
Danny’s sudden death left a hole in his mom’s heart. A mother always want to see their children grow up and be successful. Johnson will never get to see those things come true.
“A lot of his friends are married, they have kids, and I guess, I always think what would’ve been with Danny,” said Johnson.
Johnson found the volunteer nonprofit group Friends of the Angel to help her grieve and heal. Eventually she and her family purchased a memory brick at the base of the Angel of Hope statue in Danny’s honor.
“We just come here and it kind of helps us to just bring his memory alive,” she explained.
Now more people will get to pay tribute to their deceased loved ones. Maple Grove park officials added 1,500 more memorial pavers. A water fountain and more seating and garden space were also added to the park. On Saturday, Friends of the Angel will hold a walk and rededication ceremony at the Angel of Hope Garden.
“It’s a day of celebration, it’s a day to celebrate our wonderful angels that have been called away too soon,” said Friends of the Angel President Sue Drag.
