Waukesha Strong Holiday Memorial Tree stands at Veterans Park
WAUKESHA, Wis. - People are paying their respects at a growing memorial for the victims of the Waukesha Christmas Parade tragedy.
"It really impacts you differently, when you see the crosses and all the things the people have left in remembrance of the people who were injured or lost their lives," said Carol Smith of Brookfield.
"It’s getting bigger every day," said Vic Flagel.
Six people were killed when an SUV plowed through the parade route on Sunday, Nov. 21.
Jane Kulich was one of the victims. On Monday afternoon, Nov. 29, Kulich's husband visited the memorial – finding comfort in the arms of a stranger as he grieves the loss of the love of his life.
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"This was real. It wasn’t just a news story or things we were reading online. This really happened to families," Smith said.
Just a few feet away, a bright and colorful holiday memorial tree is standing at Veterans Park. The creators say each heart honors the lives affected by what happened. One side of the heart reflects the pain felt – the other side, healed and stronger.
"The handmade touches were really beautiful," said a woman named Mary.
Waukesha Strong Holiday Memorial Tree
"We’ve all been praying. I’ve been praying so much because the Lord will heal," said a woman named Sherry.
Red hearts on the tree are for Waukesha South High School, purple for Waukesha North High School, blue hearts for Waukesha West High School, and pink hearts for all dance teams that were impacted.
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