Northeast Ohio Nurse Honor Guard to Host Memorial Service

Two services planned in Parma and Northfield to honor nurses who have passed away

Apr. 6, 2026 at 5:25pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in warm tones depicting a group of nurses in white uniforms gathered together, their faces obscured but their body language conveying a sense of community and remembrance.A memorial service honoring the lives and legacies of nurses who have passed away provides a space for the community to gather in remembrance and support.Cleveland Today

The Northeast Ohio Nurse Honor Guard is hosting its 3rd Annual Nurse Memorial Service at Busch Funeral Services in Northfield and Parma, Ohio this May. The services will honor the lives and legacies of nurses who have passed, while offering comfort and connection to those who gather in remembrance.

Why it matters

The memorial service provides a meaningful opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the incredible impact nurses have on so many lives. It also creates a space for attendees to share memories and find fellowship with others who have experienced similar losses.

The details

The first service will take place on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Parma location, followed by a second service on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Northfield location. The event will include a brief presentation and demonstration by the Northeast Ohio Nurse Honor Guard, an opportunity for attendees to add their loved one to a Memorial Tree, and time for guests to share memories of the nurses who made an impact in their lives.

  • The 3rd Annual Nurse Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in Parma, Ohio.
  • A second service will be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in Northfield, Ohio.

The players

Northeast Ohio Nurse Honor Guard

A dedicated group of volunteers who perform the Nightingale Tribute at funeral and memorial services for nurses. The organization was established in 2022 by Barb Hertrick and Vanessa Ryks.

Vanessa Ryks, RN, OCN

President and Co-Founder of the Northeast Ohio Nurse Honor Guard.

Jim Busch

Owner and President of Busch Funeral and Crematory Services, which is hosting the memorial services.

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What they’re saying

“Nursing is more than a profession—it's a calling rooted in compassion and service. Through this memorial, we not only honor those who have passed, but also create a space for their stories to be shared and remembered in a meaningful way.”

— Vanessa Ryks, RN, OCN, President and Co-Founder of the Northeast Ohio Nurse Honor Guard

“We are honored to continue hosting this special service alongside the Northeast Ohio Nurse Honor Guard. This event brings people together to reflect, remember, and celebrate the incredible impact nurses have on so many lives. It's a meaningful opportunity for our community to come together in both remembrance and support.”

— Jim Busch, Owner and President of Busch Funeral and Crematory Services

What’s next

The Nurse Memorial Service is open to the public, and all are welcome to attend. RSVPs are appreciated but not required at neohnursehonorguard@gmail.com.

The takeaway

This memorial service provides a valuable opportunity for the community to come together and honor the nurses who have dedicated their lives to caring for others. By sharing memories and finding fellowship with those who have experienced similar losses, attendees can find comfort and healing during this meaningful event.