Eleanor “Elly” Ghan devoted her life to the art and science of nursing, leaving a legacy defined not only by clinical excellence, but by leadership, loyalty, and human connection. Elly began her nursing journey after graduating from Chong Hua Nursing School in the Philippines, where she laid the foundation for a career marked by dedication, courage, and compassion.

From the very beginning, nursing was not simply her profession—it was her calling. Throughout her distinguished career, Elly served in many healthcare settings, including Chapman Global, West Anaheim, Kaiser Permanente, and Buena Vista. At Buena Vista, Elly rose to the role of Director of Nursing for the Skilled Nursing Facility and Sub‑Acute Unit, where her leadership profoundly shaped the quality of care and the culture of the organization. What made Elly truly extraordinary—and what defines her nursing legacy—was her unmatched ability to connect with people. She valued every member of her team, from bedside staff to leadership, and she led with respect, authenticity, and heart. Elly did not simply manage teams; she built families.

Her leadership inspired fierce loyalty. Time and again, when Elly moved on to a new opportunity, her staff chose to follow her. Teams reunited, facilities transformed, and excellence followed—because where Elly went, standards rose and care flourished. This happened repeatedly throughout her career, and those who worked with her proudly referred to themselves as Elly’s team.

Together, Elly and her teams delivered top‑notch care to countless patients and families. Her influence reached far beyond policies or procedures—it was felt in confidence restored, dignity preserved, and lives touched.

We honor Eleanor “Elly” Ghan not only for the places she served, but for the people she lifted, the leaders she shaped, and the legacy she leaves behind. Her light continues to guide all who had the privilege to walk beside her in the noble profession of nursing.

https://vimeo.com/showcase/sjfrpv-curr-special?video=1180000197#t=1h19m26s

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0X4WJDVvujVM0EBvHNFurj?si=nPQgvKiLQ86im00rg6fh9A

Nicole Ludwick was a compassionate Registered Nurse whose life and career reflected the very heart of nursing. From a young age, Nicole knew she was called to this profession. Inspired by her family—especially her aunt, a nurse, and her uncle, a physician—she learned early that nursing and medicine were not simply careers, but acts of compassion, courage, and service to others. The loss of her aunt to cancer further deepened Nicole’s commitment to the healing professions and strengthened her resolve to care for others with presence and love.

Nicole pursued her calling with purpose, completing her nursing education at Loma Linda University, graduating in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic—a time that demanded extraordinary resilience from those entering the profession. She stepped into nursing with quiet courage and unwavering dedication.

Her very first position as a Registered Nurse was in postpartum care at MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach—a place that immediately felt like home. There, Nicole supported mothers, newborns, and families during some of life’s most vulnerable and profound moments. She provided education, reassurance, advocacy, and hands-on care at the very beginning of life, understanding that postpartum nursing addressed not only physical needs, but emotional and spiritual ones as well.

At the bedside, Nicole was known for her calm presence, gentle spirit, and genuine ability to help families feel safe, confident, and supported. Nursing was not simply what she did—it was who she was. Even while courageously facing her own battle with a rare and aggressive cancer, Nicole continued to embody the essence of nursing. She lived with humility, resilience, and grace, remaining deeply aware of the importance of presence, connection, and compassion—both as a nurse and as a patient.

Nicole Ludwick lived her calling with strength and purpose. Her legacy endures through the families she supported, the lives she helped begin, and the profession she honored through her devoted and loving service.

We honor the life and service of Nicole Ludwick, RN. Through her hands, her presence, and her heart, Nicole lived the true spirit of nursing. She met families at the beginning of life with compassion and grace, offering calm where there was uncertainty, reassurance where there was fear, and love where it was most needed. Her care extended beyond skills and knowledge—it reached the soul.

Nicole’s light as a nurse did not fade in the face of adversity. Even as she faced her own journey with courage, she continued to teach us what it truly means to serve: to show up with humility, to care deeply, and to remain fully present in each moment.

We release Nicole from her earthly duties with gratitude and respect. Her watch is complete. Her legacy remains—in the lives she helped begin, the families she comforted, and the profession she honored through devoted service. May we carry forward the example she set, remembering that nursing is more than a profession—it is a calling of the heart. May she rest in peace, forever honored, forever remembered.

We remember Nurse Lisa—a nurse whose journey into nursing was guided by love, strength, and a deep desire to care for others. Lisa’s calling to nursing began close to home. While caring for her husband during his courageous battle with cancer, she discovered the profound impact of compassion, presence, and gentle care. From that deeply personal experience, the seed was planted for a life devoted to nursing.

Lisa graduated from LVN school in 2012, carrying with her not only clinical knowledge, but also a heart shaped by resilience and empathy. She began her nursing career in home health, where she quietly made a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and families—often during moments that mattered most.

In time, Lisa found her place as a school nurse, a role that suited her perfectly. Traveling from school to school, she became a trusted and steady presence for students who needed comfort, reassurance, or simply someone who cared. And they loved her. To them, she wasn’t just the nurse—she was Nurse Lisa. Her commitment didn’t end with the school day. Lisa was deeply involved in the ACES after-school program, continuing to support and encourage students beyond the classroom. She showed up consistently, listened patiently, and cared deeply—just as nurses do.

Lisa may not be remembered by the number of years she worked, but by the countless moments when her presence mattered. In classrooms, hallways, clinics, and quiet conversations.

Janine possessed a gentle strength and a caring spirit that drew her naturally to the profession of nursing. She graduated from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee, in 2013, and went on to dedicate 12 years of her life to nursing—not simply as a career, but as a calling.

In 2021, Janine joined the Acute Rehabilitation Department at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center in San Pedro. It did not take long for her leadership, clinical skill, and calm presence to shine. She quickly became a Charge Nurse, earning the trust and respect of both her colleagues and patients alike. Her commitment to excellence was recognized when she was nominated for the Nurse Excellence Award two years in a row—a reflection of the impact she made every single day.

Her colleagues consistently described JG as “the sweetest person ever.” She was always looking for ways to learn, grow, and improve, both professionally and personally. She carried herself with an unfailingly positive attitude, approaching challenges with grace, humility, and determination. Even on the hardest days, her kindness and warmth uplifted those around her.

Her patients felt her compassion in the way she spoke, listened, and cared—fully, attentively, and selflessly. Her coworkers knew her as someone who made every shift better simply by being there, her ever‑ready smile a quiet reassurance in moments of stress.

To her family, JG was nothing short of an angel on earth. She was a beloved daughter to Joel Kuan Sr. and Glace Guido‑Kuan, a devoted sister to Joel Kuan Jr. and Jan Rhys Kuan, and a constant source of joy, laughter, and unconditional love. She gave of herself freely—her time, her care, and her heart—without ever asking for anything in return.

To her friends, she was a steady light: genuine, loyal, and deeply kind. She had a remarkable gift for making others feel seen, valued, and cared for. Many can say their lives are better simply because Janine was part of them.

Though her physical presence is no longer with us, her legacy lives on—in every patient she comforted, every colleague she supported, and every heart she touched. Janine’s life is a testament to compassion in action, service with humility, and love without condition. She will be deeply missed, endlessly loved, and forever remembered.

Rainier “Jett” Gloria, MSN, FNP‑C, RN, devoted his nursing career to compassionate service, clinical excellence, and leadership. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Dr. Carlos S. Lanting College in Quezon City, Philippines, graduating in 2007, and began working as a registered nurse in 2009. He later advanced his education, completing his Master’s degree and Family Nurse Practitioner program at Charles Drew University in California.

Jett spent the majority of his nursing career in the Emergency Department, serving patients at Community Hospital of Huntington Park, White Memorial Medical Center, and Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center. Known for his leadership, he served as a relief charge nurse and was a trusted preceptor for many new graduate and newly hired ER nurses. His mentorship emphasized not only clinical skills, but also compassion, teamwork, resilience, and communication.

In 2024, Jett was awarded the Excellence in Clinical Nursing Practice by the Mervyn Dymally College of Nursing at Charles Drew University, recognizing his outstanding role modeling, compassionate care, and nursing excellence. As a certified Family Nurse Practitioner, he continued to serve patients as an ER Nurse Practitioner at Garfield Medical Center and as an Advanced Wound Specialist Nurse Practitioner with Wound Rescue.

Jett was known for treating every patient with dignity, respect, and humanity, even in the fast‑paced and chaotic environment of the Emergency Department. He valued integrity above all else and believed deeply in lifting others up. His influence inspired many colleagues to pursue advanced nursing education, with several following his path to become Nurse Practitioners.

Above all, Jett wished to be remembered as “a man for others.” He led with empathy, integrity, and kindness, measuring success not by personal achievement, but by the positive impact he made on the lives of patients, families, and colleagues. His legacy lives on through those he mentored and the countless lives he touched through compassionate care.

In his own words, and the way he lived his life: “Live your life to the fullest. Oh! Game na! Shot na!!”

Sherry Cline Martin’s nursing journey was one of lifelong learning, dedication, and service to others. Sherry graduated from Downey High School in 1978 and went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mount Saint Mary’s University in Los Angeles in 1982. Soon after, she began her nursing career at Downey Community Hospital, which later became PIH Health, where she faithfully served for many years.

Throughout her career, Sherry worked in multiple nursing departments, gaining experience and touching lives across the continuum of care. She served as a chemotherapy nurse, providing compassionate, skilled care to patients during some of their most vulnerable moments, and later became Charge Nurse of the department, providing leadership, guidance, and support to both patients and staff.

Driven by a passion for teaching and professional growth, Sherry later transitioned into the Nurse Education Department, where she helped shape and mentor future generations of nurses. When PIH Health transitioned ownership, Sherry embraced the opportunity to further her education. While working full-time, she attended the University of Phoenix, demonstrating remarkable dedication and perseverance, and in July of 2015, she earned her Master of Science in Nursing.

Following her graduate studies, Sherry served as Director of Medical-Surgical Nursing for approximately one year. Ultimately, her heart called her back to education, where she returned to the Education Department, continuing to inspire and guide her colleagues. Sherry maintained professional excellence through multiple certifications, including BLS, ACLS, and CRNI, reflecting her commitment to high standards of nursing practice.

Sherry Cline Martin is remembered not by the number of years she worked, but by the difference she made—through her compassion, leadership, dedication to education, and unwavering service to others. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the nurses she mentored, and the patients who felt her care.

Though her earthly nursing duties are now complete, Sherry’s light continues to shine in the memories held dear and the lives touched by her care.

Rani Singh, RN, CMSRN, dedicated her nursing career to serving others with compassion, integrity, and quiet strength. She graduated from Regents College in 2000 and began her nursing journey guided by a lifelong desire to care for those in need and to always do what was right for her patients.

Rani worked at Simi Valley Hospital and later at Kaiser Permanente Woodland Hills, where she served on 5 North and in the Neurosurgery Clinic. Her clinical background included Medical-Surgical and Telemetry nursing, as well as specialized neurosurgical care. She was deeply respected for her strong clinical judgment, problem‑solving abilities, and unwavering advocacy for patients.

One of Rani’s proudest professional accomplishments was her instrumental role in supporting Dr. Ananda with the Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Program in Southern California. As a neurosurgery nurse, she helped coordinate complex DBS care, ensuring patients received seamless, compassionate, and well‑organized treatment throughout their journey.

Rani earned her CMSRN (Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse) certification, reflecting her commitment to excellence and lifelong learning. She was also a natural leader and mentor, serving as a preceptor to many new graduate nurses who later advanced into ICU roles. She consistently encouraged colleagues to pursue nursing education and professional growth.

Rani chose nursing because she wanted to serve others. She loved caring for patients and solving problems that made a true difference in their lives. Known as a strong and steady presence, she was a trusted support to both patients and coworkers alike.

Rani carried the values of honesty, integrity, and selflessness throughout her career. She did not seek recognition—she simply did the right thing for her patients. That commitment is the legacy she leaves behind and the way she will be remembered.

Marcella Elizabeth Hoffman, RN lived a life defined by nursing, compassion, and unwavering love for others. Nursing was not simply her profession—it was her calling, her instinct, and her lifelong gift. Trained as a diploma nurse at Holy Family School of Nursing in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, Marcella answered the call to care early in life. From her first days at the bedside, she embodied the values that define nursing: comfort offered freely, courage in difficult moments, kindness without condition, and steadfast devotion to duty.

Marcella carried nursing far beyond the clinical setting. She practiced it every day of her life—raising twelve children with strength and tenderness, offering calm reassurance in moments of fear, tending injuries both small and great, and standing faithfully beside those in need. Her presence alone brought peace; her hands brought healing; her heart brought hope. Marcella’s nursing training would serve her well through life, both professionally and at home. Baking soda paste for bee stings and other itchy things, and hydrogen peroxide for cuts and scrapes. Occasionally, she would spray a little window cleaner on a scrape. She was asked years later why she used window cleaner, and she said, “Because you thought it worked” …the mind is a powerful thing.

Rooted in the faith, resilience, and work ethic learned on a Wisconsin dairy farm, Marcella understood that true care requires sacrifice and perseverance. She walked with others through joy and sorrow alike, offering compassionate support without judgment and love without expectation. Even in life’s most challenging seasons, including caring for her beloved husband through illness, Marcella’s nursing spirit never wavered. She showed us that nursing is not only about healing the body, but about honoring dignity, comforting the soul, and remaining present until the very end.

We honor Marcella’s life of service and the countless lives she touched through her dedication as a nurse, a mother, a wife, and a friend. Though her earthly nursing has ended, her light continues to shine—in her family, in her example, and in every heart she cared for.

Emily Alexander lived a life devoted to caring for others. For more than sixty years, she answered the sacred calling of nursing with skill, humility, and a deeply compassionate heart. Through her steady presence, gentle touch, and unwavering dedication, Emily brought comfort, healing, and hope to countless patients, families, and colleagues. Emily received her nursing education at East Los Angeles College and Los Angeles Trade Technical College, preparing her for a career that would span decades and touch many areas of healthcare. She served with distinction in medical-surgical nursing—her favorite specialty—as well as postpartum care, maternal-child health, labor and delivery recovery, infectious disease, and home health nursing. In hospitals throughout Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Valley, she was trusted as a team leader known for professionalism, integrity, and calm leadership.

As a home health nurse, Emily supervised LVNs and CNAs and was deeply committed to teaching and mentoring others. She believed strongly in patient education, home safety, and empowering families with knowledge and confidence. Her colleagues remember her patience, wisdom, and willingness to guide and encourage—especially young nurses finding their way. Emily was a lifelong learner who maintained her nursing credentials as long as possible and continued to inspire others even after retirement. She often reminded those she mentored not to give up, especially in moments of challenge, and to remain faithful to their calling.

We remember Emily not only for the many years she served as a nurse, but for the difference she made in each life she touched. Her compassion, courage, and quiet strength live on in the hearts of those she cared for and the nurses she inspired. Emily Alexander’s earthly nursing duties are complete, but her legacy of love, service, and faith will endure forever.

From an early age, Debbie's compassion and steadiness made nursing a natural calling. She graduated from Beatrice High School in 1971 and went on to complete her nursing education at St. Elizabeth School of Nursing in Grand Island, earning her diploma in 1973. Debbie began her career as a pediatric nurse at St. Luke’s Hospital, where she cared for children with tenderness, skill, and deep devotion from 1973 to 1986.

While working full‑time, Debbie advanced her education with remarkable determination—earning both her Master’s Degree and her PhD in Nursing from the University of Missouri–Kansas City. Her dedication to the profession shone brightly in everything she did. In 1986, Debbie brought her expertise and her heart to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), serving as a Nurse Practitioner for critically ill and immunocompromised children. Her leadership and innovation were extraordinary.

In 1998, Debbie founded the Comfort, Pain, and Palliative Care Program, as well as the Anesthesiology Critical Care Medicine Department, shaping the way CHLA cared for its most vulnerable patients. In 2021, Debbie created the hospital’s Dog Therapy Program, recognizing the healing power of connection and comfort. What began as her personal vision flourished—within a year, the program grew significantly, eventually supporting nearly 30 team members by the time she retired in 2023. Debbie continued consulting through the spring of 2024, ensuring the programs she built would continue to thrive.

Debbie returned to Kansas City in 2024 to be closer to family. Her journey was marked by extraordinary resilience. A double transplant recipient in 2012—receiving a kidney from her brother Steve and a pancreas from a young donor—Debbie overcame medical challenges with strength, gratitude, and courage. She was diabetic from 1972 until her transplants, and she faced every trial with grace and a fighter’s spirit.

Beyond nursing, Debbie loved to travel and teach. She shared her expertise nationwide through seminars on comfort care for children. She explored Europe, Australia, Hawaii, Italy, and more—often traveling with her beloved mother, Bernice. And at the center of her heart were her cherished dogs: Ruff & Tumble, and later Milo and Odie, who brought joy, companionship, and unconditional love.

We honor Debbie with gratitude, and we carry her light forward with the same devotion she brought to every day of her life.

Arrive at 11:30 am. Come to the hospital entrance and ask for the Spiritual Guide - Dagmar Grefe - YOU WILL NEED YOUR DRIVER'S LICENSE for entrance as a visitor to the hospital. Parking will be validated.

 Give yourself time for parking and navigating the site.  We will huddle and distribute assignments, caps, and capes as needed. Wear white for the ceremony, a cape, and a cap. If you don't have a cape or cap, loaners will be available.

Julie Anne Halamicek, RN, dedicated her life to the noble calling of nursing with unwavering compassion, integrity, and professionalism. Her career reflected a deep commitment to service—service to her patients, to their families, and to the colleagues who were privileged to work alongside her.

Julie Anne did far more than fulfill the duties of a nurse; she carried herself with a grace and presence that brought reassurance to those in her care, even in life’s most vulnerable moments. Throughout her years in nursing, Julie Anne became a steady source of comfort, offering calm when fear was present and clarity when uncertainty clouded the moment. She met every challenge with a steady hand and a thoughtful heart, guided by a profound belief in the dignity and worth of every person she served. Her ability to see the individual behind the illness, the family behind the worry, and the human being behind the need was a testament to her character and to her calling.

Her colleagues remember her not only for her skill, but for her kindness—for the way she listened, supported, encouraged, and uplifted others. She shared her knowledge generously, mentored with patience, and fostered a sense of unity and purpose within her teams. Julie Anne’s compassion extended beyond clinical expertise; it was present in each interaction, each gesture, and each moment of connection she offered during her career.

Julie Anne leaves behind a legacy defined by the countless lives she touched: the patients who felt safe in her care, the families who found solace in her presence, and the nurses who were inspired by her dedication. Her work echoes far beyond the walls of any facility—carried forward in the stories shared, the comfort remembered, and the lives forever changed because she was there.

Marc Makiri, RN, devoted his life to the service of others through the art and science of nursing. Throughout his career, Marc was known for his steady presence, his quiet strength, and his deep commitment to delivering compassionate care. He approached every patient with dignity and respect, offering comfort in difficult moments and hope when it was needed most.

Marc’s presence brought comfort, his actions brought healing, and his spirit brought hope. He touched lives quietly but deeply, leaving behind a legacy defined not by titles or tasks, but by moments of humanity and grace.

Marc’s dedication extended far beyond clinical skill—he was a mentor, a support, and a trusted colleague. He uplifted those around him with his professionalism, his kindness, and his willingness to step forward whenever someone needed help. His calm leadership and unwavering integrity made him a nurse others looked up to, and a friend whose presence brought reassurance.

Whether caring for patients, guiding families, or supporting his team, Marc exemplified the highest values of the nursing profession. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the compassion he shared, and the healing he brought into the world.

We honor not only his years as a nurse, but the profound difference he made during those years—one patient, one moment, one act of kindness at a time.

Marc’s light continues in all the lives he cared for, all the colleagues he inspired, and all the hearts he lifted along his journey. May his memory be a blessing, and may his service forever be honored.

We celebrate the extraordinary life of Nenita Torqueza, who passed away at 81 years old — a woman whose life was defined by love, faith, and selfless service.

    For 43 remarkable years, she served as a NICU nurse at Kaiser Hospital, answering a calling that was so much more than a profession. She used to say that the cries of babies were “music to her ears.” Where others heard alarms and urgency, she heard hope. Where others saw fragile beginnings, she saw miracles waiting to unfold. She believed she was an angel on earth — and to so many families, she truly was.

    She had a gift. She could sense when a sick baby needed just a little more care, a little more attention, a little more love. With steady hands and a compassionate heart, she helped guide countless newborns toward health and home. But her care didn’t stop with the babies — she comforted anxious parents, offered reassurance during uncertain moments, and became a quiet pillar of strength in some of the most vulnerable times of their lives.

   Her journey began in the Philippines, where she was born and raised before bravely immigrating to the United States in pursuit of opportunity and service. She worked at several hospitals throughout her nursing career, including Cook County Hospital in Chicago, Illinois and hospitals throughout Los Angeles, California. She carried with her the resilience, warmth, and deep faith that defined her roots, building a life grounded in hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to her family.

    Beyond her profession, she was the heart and rock of the home.She was a devoted wife to her late husband, Vivencio Torqueza, caring for him tenderly in his final year with the same compassion she showed her tiny patients. She was a loving mother to four daughters, raising them with patience, strength, and faith. She taught them by example — how to give without expecting anything in return, how to endure hardships with grace, and how to trust in God’s plan even when the road felt uncertain.

     As a grandmother to seven grandchildren, she poured out her love endlessly. Her arms were always open, her prayers always constant, her pride in her family unmistakable. She was the safe place, the encourager, the quiet warrior.

      She was also a friend, a daughter, a sister — but above all, she was love in action. Her life was not measured only in years, but in the countless lives she touched: the babies she helped save, the families she comforted, the friends she supported, and the family she cherished with her whole heart.

    Her legacy lives on. It lives on in the healthy adults who once fit in her hands. It lives on in her daughters and grandchildren. It lives on in every act of kindness inspired by her example.

If the cries of babies were music to her ears, then surely heaven welcomed her with the most beautiful symphony.
    She is loved and her love will be carried forward - always.

Vivian Bagatt, LVN, dedicated her life to caregiving with a heart full of compassion and a spirit grounded in service. Vivian carried her natural kindness into every aspect of her nursing career and into the lives of all she touched. She leaves behind a legacy of love, comfort, and unwavering devotion.

Vivian’s work as a nurse reflected who she was—gentle, attentive, and selfless. She gave generously to those under her care, always offering not just her professional skill but her warmth, patience, and deep empathy. Her presence brought comfort to patients and families alike, and she served with humility and dedication throughout her nursing journey.

Beyond her calling as a nurse, Vivian was the heart of her family. Her greatest pride was her family. She celebrated her children’s and grandchildren’s achievements with unwavering support and joy. Her daughter, Tess Villagracia, and her son, Mike Bagatt, along with her grandchildren—Brandon, Casey, Ally, Aiden, and Mason—and her great‑grandson, Cillian, carry forward her legacy. Their lives are forever shaped by her kindness, her laughter, and the love she poured into them.

We honor the life of Vivian Bagatt, LVN, whose gentle spirit and compassionate heart touched countless lives. Vivian served with quiet strength, unwavering kindness, and a dedication that reflected the truest essence of nursing. Her hands brought comfort, her presence brought peace, and her love created bonds that will endure for generations.

Though her earthly duties are complete, her light continues to shine—in the memories shared by her family, in the lives of those she cared for, and in the legacy of compassion she leaves behind. Vivian’s devotion to caregiving, her joy in simple pleasures, and her deep love for her family will forever remain a testament to a life lived with purpose and grace.

As we say farewell, we carry forward her spirit of kindness, her generosity, and the love she poured into the world. May she rest in peace, forever remembered, forever cherished, and forever honored.

Arrive at the graveside at 1 pm. You will need to check into the office for the site.

 Give yourself time for parking and navigating the site.  We will huddle and distribute assignments, caps, and capes as needed.

Fleurette began her journey in nursing with purpose and determination, earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Saint Louis University in 1960. Even as a student, she devoted herself to caring for patients at Firmin Desloge Hospital. There, she continued her service after graduation, balancing the demands of a new career with the joys of married life and the birth of her first child. Within those hospital walls, she also met the medical resident who would become her husband—beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in healing and care.

When Fleurette later stepped away from full‑time nursing to raise their three children, her heart never left the profession. Nursing was woven into her identity, a thread running through her life just as it had through the generations before and after her. Her mother had served as a nurse during the 1919 Spanish influenza pandemic, and that legacy lived on not only in Fleurette but in her daughter, who also chose the nursing path.

From 1990 to 1997, Fleurette returned to the medical field she loved, working side by side with her husband in his busy cardiology practice. In those years, she again brought comfort, skill, and calm assurance to those who needed it—reaffirming her lifelong commitment to care.

Fleurette spoke often and proudly of being a nurse. To her, nursing was never simply a career; it was a way of life. Through her service, her family, her example, and her deep devotion, she carried forward a legacy of compassion that began long before her and continues long after.

We honor Fleurette for a life lived in the true spirit of Florence Nightingale—one of service, dedication, and love. Her light endures in the generations she inspired and the countless lives she touched.

We honor Lucille Trinkle, RN, who attended Cypress College from Spring of 1976 to Spring of 1978. Graduated with a Nursing Degree - June 9, 1978, Registered Nurse. 

Lucille worked in Oncology at St. Jude Hospital in Fullerton, CA, then transferred to Behavioral Health at Whittier Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital in Whittier, CA, where she retired. She became a nurse later in life, having been a homemaker for her 4 children prior to that. She is survived by her 4 children, 5 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren.

Lucille’s service to others was deeply rooted in her life experiences. As a mother first, she brought understanding, resilience, and kindness into her nursing practice. Her legacy extends far beyond her years at the bedside. She inspired future generations through both her example and her encouragement, most notably her granddaughter, who followed in her footsteps to become a registered nurse. Lucille even accompanied her granddaughter to register for the nursing program, a quiet yet powerful testament to the pride she felt in continuing the tradition of care and service.

Regina Mae Wilder devoted her life to caring for others with the same sweetness, kindness, and gentle spirit that defined her as a person. Born on December 1, 1942, she carried her compassionate nature into a meaningful career in nursing. It was during her time at San Antonio Community Hospital that she not only served patients with skill and dedication but also met her future husband, Frank. He often said she was the best nurse he had ever met—a testament to her clinical excellence, her calm presence, and the sincere love she brought to her work.

Throughout her career, Regina approached nursing with humility and heart. She formed strong bonds with colleagues and patients alike, offering comfort, reassurance, and meticulous care. Her commitment extended beyond the walls of the hospital; she brought the same nurturing warmth into every aspect of her life.

Though proud of her profession, Regina was even more proud of her family, balancing her roles as nurse, spouse, mother, and grandmother with grace. Her gentle touch, steady hands, and instinct for helping others stayed with her long after she stepped away from clinical practice. Nursing was not just a job she once held—it was a reflection of who she was.

Regina leaves behind a legacy of compassion, service, and quiet strength. Those who knew her carry the memory of a nurse who treated every person with dignity and kindness, making a lasting difference in the lives she touched.

We honor the life, service, and legacy of Sharon “Shay” Hargrove, RN,— a nurse, a leader, a mentor, and a servant of compassion.  For nearly twenty‑eight years, Shay dedicated her life to the art and calling of nursing. She stood with patients and families during their most sacred moments, and she gave her heart fully to her colleagues, her community, and the profession she loved.

Shay built an extraordinary nursing career grounded in compassion, determination, and lifelong service. After spending her childhood traveling the world as an Air Force dependent, she graduated from Abilene High School in 1981 and later discovered her calling to nursing while living in Bakersfield, California. She earned her Associate of Science in Nursing from Bakersfield College in 1992, launching a career that would touch countless lives.

Shay began her professional journey in Labor and Delivery at Kern County Hospital, where she developed the foundation of her clinical expertise. In 1994, she expanded her experience by joining Hollywood Presbyterian’s Labor and Delivery team. Despite the demanding commute from Bakersfield to Los Angeles as a single mother, Shay embraced the opportunity for growth and advancement. Her commitment, grit, and love for her son guided every decision.

In 1998, Shay found her true professional home at the newly opened Kaiser Permanente Baldwin Park Medical Center. As part of the inaugural Labor & Delivery team, she played an essential role in building the department from the ground up. Her leadership and exceptional clinical skill led to rapid promotions, first to Supervising Nurse and then to Charge Nurse. Although she eventually stepped down from the Charge position to pursue further education, her impact remained unmistakable.

Shay achieved one of her greatest professional milestones when she was accepted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Southern California—her dream school. Balancing full-time work and full-time studies, she graduated in May 2004. Her perseverance and faith were central to this achievement.

Throughout her nearly 28-year career with Kaiser Permanente, Shay held numerous roles across Labor & Delivery and OBGYN, including:

•Team Coordinator, Charge Nurse,  Procedure Nurse, Staff RN, Team Lead, and  Assistant Department Administrator

She was deeply involved in professional governance and advocacy, serving on several committees and holding leadership roles within UNAC, eventually becoming President of the union at Baldwin Park. Known for her energy, connection to others, and ability to make things happen, Shay was widely recognized as a resource, a mentor, and the person who could get anything done..  Her excellence was honored with multiple awards, including:

•Daisy Award (2021), Kaiser Permanente SCAL Regional Spotlight (2021), and  KMCLT Recognition Award (2019)

Beyond her clinical work, Shay gave back to her community through years of volunteer service with the Special Olympics medical staff. A proud USC Trojan, she was a dedicated contributor to the USC Trojan Athletic Fund and a loyal football season ticket holder for fifteen years.  Shay’s nursing career was defined by service, leadership, resilience, and profound compassion. She built departments, shaped teams, mentored colleagues, and cared for families at the most important moments of their lives. Her legacy lives on not only through the patients she helped bring safely into the world, but through every nurse and colleague she inspired along the way. The Nurse Honor Guard stands here today to recognize her commitment and to celebrate the noble legacy she leaves behind.`

Sharon worked at Kaiser Permanente for over 28 years! View services live http://Stsbc.org, click on live.

On Line Zoom Vigil

for Alex Pretti, RN.

Time: Sunday  Feb 1, 2026 6:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

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Alex Jeffrey Pretti (1988 – January 24, 2026)was a 37-year-old United States citizen who lived in the Lyndale neighborhoodof Minneapolis.Pretti was born in Park Ridge, a northwest suburb city of the Chicago metropolitan area, to a family with northern Italian ancestry.He grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and was graduated from the public Preble High School in 2006. He attended the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Minnesota, where he received a bachelor's degree with a major in biology, society and environment in 2011.

Pretti was hired in 2014 as a research assistant in the clinical research program at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Health Care System.He had been a registered nurse in Minnesota since 2021.At the time of his death, Pretti held an active nursing license and was an intensive care nurse at the United States Department of Veterans Affairs hospital in Minneapolis. He was a member of the American Federation of Government Employees.

Alex Pretti was shot multiple times by Border Patrol agents near the intersection of 26th Street and Nicollet Avenue in the Whittier neighborhood[45] of Minneapolis.

Jeanette’s life was defined by compassion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to caring for others. For more than twenty years as a Pediatric Registered Nurse, she poured her heart into the care of children and their families. Her gentle presence, steady professionalism, and deep empathy brought comfort in moments of fear and hope in times of uncertainty.

Even after retiring from clinical nursing, Jeanette’s calling never faded. As a simulation specialist and instructor at the College of Southern Nevada, she devoted six more years to shaping future nurses—sharing her knowledge, her warmth, and the lived wisdom of a nurse who truly understood the meaning of care.

Jeanette will be remembered for her kindness, her humor, her strength, and the way she made people feel seen, valued, and understood. Her legacy lives on in her students, her patients, her colleagues, and the family she loved so deeply.

Like Nightingale’s lamp, Jeanette’s light continues to guide us—reminding us that nursing is not just a profession, but a calling of the heart.

Mary Goetz graduated from Marquette University and earned her Registered Nurse license in 1959. Over the course of her long and dedicated career, Mary served with distinction at San Pedro Hospital and Torrance Memorial. Her professional journey reflected both versatility and deep commitment, as she worked in many areas of nursing — including cardiac care, psychiatry, patient education, administration, utilization review, and neonatal care for premature babies.

Mary was a true trailblazer in patient education, particularly in the field of cardiac care. Her work in developing and writing widely used cardiac care pamphlets transformed how patients learned about their own health and treatment. These materials empowered countless patients with knowledge and confidence, and the impact of her work extended far beyond the walls of any single hospital. This accomplishment remained one of Mary’s proudest contributions to the nursing profession.

Beyond her professional achievements, Mary’s joy and strength were multiplied through her lifelong friendships with a close circle of fellow nurses— Shiela, Diane, Cheryl, and Enid. Together, they shared laughter, adventures, unwavering support, and even a few mischievous trips to Las Vegas. Through every season of their careers and lives, this remarkable group of women inspired one another and embodied the camaraderie and resilience that define nursing at its best.

Mary’s devotion to nursing reached far beyond her own work — it touched her family in profound ways. Her love for the profession inspired her daughter, granddaughter, and daughter-in-law to also become nurses, creating a legacy of care that spans generations. One of Mary’s most treasured moments was the day she proudly pinned her granddaughter at her nursing school graduation — a symbolic and deeply meaningful passing of the torch.

Edna devoted 42 years of her life to the profession of nursing as a Licensed Vocational Nurse, serving with skill, compassion, and unwavering dedication. Her healthcare journey began in 1977 at Hillcrest Skilled Nursing Facility, a place of deep personal significance, where she not only began her nursing career but also met the love of her life and future husband of 45 years.

Determined to serve at the bedside, Edna pursued her nursing education at Long Beach City College, passing her LVN boards on November 26, 1979—a milestone she was deeply proud to achieve.

Edna’s professional career continued at Long Beach Community Hospital and later at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center, where she dedicated her life’s work to pediatrics and obstetrics.

Caring for mothers and newborns was not simply her specialty—it was her passion. As an LVN, Edna played a vital role in supporting families during life’s most tender and transformative moments, offering comfort, reassurance, and expert care to countless babies and the parents who loved them.

For Edna, nursing was never just a job—it was her calling. Even beyond the hospital setting, her devotion to caregiving never ended. She became the family nurse, lovingly caring for her husband before his passing, as well as her parents, in-laws, siblings, and extended family, always placing the needs of others before her own.

Selfless and nurturing by nature, Edna embodied the true spirit of vocational nursing—hands-on, patient-centered, and rooted in compassion. Her legacy is one of love, service, and lifelong dedication to healing. Through her work with the youngest and most vulnerable among us, Edna Radoc Acoba leaves behind a legacy that will continue to be felt for generations.

We celebrate the extraordinary life and career of Zelda M. Roberts-Lewis, RN—a nurse whose heart, skill, and dedication made a lasting impact on everyone she touched. Zelda’s story is one of passion and purpose. From the age of 12, she dreamed of becoming a nurse, and that dream became a reality that changed countless lives

Zelda graduated from Los Angeles Southwest College and began her nursing career in 1986 at Linda Vista Hospital. She went on to serve at St. Francis, Kaiser Bellflower, which later became Downey. Her first five years at Kaiser Bellflower were spent in Orthopedics, followed by Telemetry and Cardiac care—areas where her expertise and compassion saved lives every day.

As a Charge Nurse, Zelda was a true leader. She trained and mentored countless nurses, shaping the future of healthcare through her guidance and encouragement. She served as a Union Representative for UNAC, standing strong for her colleagues and advocating for excellence in nursing. Zelda was not only a caregiver—she was a motivator, inspiring her community to pursue nursing and follow in her footsteps.

Her dedication earned her Employee of the Month honors, the prestigious Daisy Award, and appearances in advertisements and training videos. These accolades reflect her commitment to education, advocacy, and patient care. But beyond awards, Zelda’s greatest recognition came from the people whose lives she touched—families who still stop her in public to say thank you for the care she gave their loved ones.

Zelda believed nurses are special people who give compassion and care deeply for their patients. She valued punctuality, sincerity, dependability, and dedication. Her advice to all of us: take care of your health. Zelda lived by this principle and encouraged others to do the same. Her legacy is one of love, service, and inspiration—a light that will continue to shine through the lives she touched and the nurses she inspired.

Today, we honor Zelda not only as a nurse but as a healer, a mentor, and a friend. She saved lives, inspired hearts, and uplifted her community. May her memory live on in every act of care and compassion. Nurses like Zelda remind us that this profession is more than a job—it is a calling, and she answered that call with grace and excellence.

With profound respect and gratitude we honor the life and legacy of Monette Adriano, RN, who dedicated over 40 years to the nursing profession. Nursing was not just her career—it was her calling, her way of life.
Monette graduated from Arellano College in the Philippines in 1971, answering the noble call to serve others through nursing. In 1972, she migrated to Atlanta, Georgia, and later moved to California in 1977, where she continued her lifelong commitment to care. Monette worked at Metropolitan State Hospital in Norwalk, serving patients with compassion and skill until her retirement in 2015.

She was immensely proud of being a nurse and truly loved her profession. Her dedication was evident in every task she performed and every life she touched.
Throughout her decades of service, Monette touched countless lives. She was there in moments of joy and sorrow, in times of hope and healing. Her steady hands and gentle presence brought comfort to patients and families alike. Monette exemplified the very essence of nursing—kindness, courage, and commitment to care.
Monette’s influence extended beyond the bedside. She mentored colleagues, inspired new nurses, and fostered a spirit of teamwork and empathy. Her dedication created ripples of goodness that will continue to touch lives for generations.

Symone Brenae Kimbell, RN, was a bright light in the lives of everyone who knew her. She was a vibrant and compassionate person and an amazing nurse. She graduated from Tuskegee in 2019 with a BSN, and accepted her first assignment at Tulane Hospital in New Orleans. Less than a year later, COVID-19 hit the world, and Symone was on the front lines, caring for patients and facing the pandemic head-on. 

Recently, Symone volunteered not only to brave crossing the picket lines of the Kaiser nurse strike to ensure safe patient care but also stepped out of her specialty to assist in Labor and Delivery. There, she assisted in bringing 20 new lives into the world and made a significant impact on everyone she encountered. She will forever be part of those birth stories and will be remembered by all who worked with her and those she cared for. 

Cynthia Lynn Garrison graduated in 1977 with an associate’s degree in nursing from Antelope Valley Community College. She devoted over 42 years of her life to St. Francis Medical Center in Lynwood, where she began her career in the Intensive Care Unit. Over the years, she became the night shift manager and later served as house supervisor, roles in which she was deeply respected and trusted.

Cynthia was known for her calm leadership, fairness, and unwavering kindness. She always worked the night shift, ensuring that her team felt supported and heard. When managing schedules, she went out of her way to accommodate her colleagues’ needs, and she was often the one called upon to help resolve conflicts with empathy and grace.

She went on medical leave in April 2020 due to COVID-19 precautions and her health history, retiring just a few months shy of her 65th birthday. Though she received service awards recognizing her many years of dedication, her true reward was the love and respect of her coworkers—every one of whom spoke of her with warmth and gratitude.

Cynthia’s legacy is one of compassion, fairness, and quiet strength. She was beloved by all who had the privilege to work alongside her.

We will celebrate the life and legacy of Rebecca Razo, RN. Rebecca was a devoted nurse. Rebecca dedicated 13 years to the Kaiser South Bay Emergency Department, where she was known for her welcoming presence and ability to connect with everyone. As a preceptor and mentor, she guided countless nurses. A strong patient advocate, Rebecca ensured compassionate care and earned recognition with the Kanga Flu Award for her outstanding flu vaccination efforts. Respected and admired by peers, she had an impact beyond the ED, leaving a lasting legacy of professionalism and kindness.

Please plan to arrive at 7:00 am. Park in the Emergency Department Parking lot off Vermont, then walk to the hospital's main entrance. Give yourself time for parking and navigating the campus.  We will huddle and distribute assignments, caps, and capes as needed. 

Today, we gather with heavy hearts and profound gratitude to celebrate the life and legacy of Linda Gonzalez, RN She was a devoted nurse. A loving mother to her two daughters and one son. A cherished colleague and loyal friend. Her presence left an imprint on every heart she touched. The ache of her absence is immeasurable—yet the light of her impact will continue to shine through all who knew her.

Linda was known as a hard worker, dedicated to her Nursing Profession. She started her nursing studies in the Philippines, then traveled to Arkansas, Texas, and California to continue them. She received her California Registered Nurse License in the 1980s.

Linda received many awards for nursing. However, she did not draw attention to herself. Her children recently found the awards in a simple pile.

Her coworkers would describe her as compassionate. She was a natural teacher and held others to the highest level of nursing practice. As seen in her picture, she was joyful and an essential part of the nursing team.

While in California, she worked at various locations, often working 12 to 16 hours a shift. She worked at Lincoln Heights, Kaiser, Mission Community, and her last post was a leader in a Psych unit in Van Nuys. She retired from full-time nursing in 2015. As nurses know, while they may retire, we never stop thinking and acting like nurses.

Tribute will be take place between Buildings 1 and 2 in the Healing Garden,

Jacqueline, a beloved nurse and mother, was tragically lost to a fatal shooting related to domestic violence. She was deeply respected by her peers and known for her compassion, dedication, and unwavering care for her patients.

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude we honor the life and legacy of Jackie Medrano—a devoted nurse, a loving mother to her two sons, a cherished daughter and sister, and a loyal friend and colleague. Jackie’s presence left an indelible mark on every heart she touched. Taken from us far too soon, the ache of her absence is immeasurable, yet the light of her impact will continue to shine through the lives she touched.

Jackie carried a natural grace, defined by patience and kindness. She possessed a rare gift for making people feel seen, valued, and cared for—tuning into their worries, fears, and pain, and easing them with her compassion. Her aura was gentle yet joyful, her laughter infectious, and her spirit full of warmth. Even on the busiest days, Jackie made life lighter simply by being herself.

To her friends and co-workers, Jackie was a bright light—her smile contagious, her laughter unforgettable, and her voice instantly recognizable and deeply loved. She comforted the hurting, encouraged the discouraged, and brought joy to moments that desperately needed it. Her presence was a blessing, and her absence leaves an ache words cannot fill.

Jackie began her healthcare journey 19 years ago as a receptionist for Kaiser in the SOS department, later transferring to Euclid. From the very beginning, she knew her purpose: to help, to care, to heal. Driven by a desire to do more, she returned to school and proudly graduated from Pacific College as a Licensed Vocational Nurse. She worked in SOS Float before finding her true home in urology, where she dedicated the last five years to serving patients with skill, grace, and heart.

She was more than a nurse—she was a mentor, a steady hand, and a calming voice. Jackie trained new LVNs with patience and wisdom, supported her team without hesitation, and was always the first to step in and help. In 2024, she was recognized for ranking in the top 10% in ASQ scores—a reflection of her dedication, skill, and unwavering commitment to her patients.

Jackie never hesitated to help. There was truly nothing she wouldn’t do for her patients or her co-workers. She showed up fully, every day, for her patients and her team. Her “good mornings” were not just greetings—they were rays of sunshine in the rhythm of the day. We will miss those mornings. We will miss her.

As the Nurse Honor Guard, we stand today in deep respect and gratitude for Jackie’s service to the nursing profession. Her earthly work is complete, but her legacy of compassion, excellence, and heartfelt care will live on in all those blessed to know her. Jackie Medrano was taken from us far too soon, but she will remain with us always—in our stories, in our memories, and in the hearts she forever changed.