It was an emotional farewell to Windsor's Salvation Army Grace Hospital.
Hundreds gathered at the half-demolished building to say their final goodbyes Saturday to a hospital that brought endless memories.
"Yeah, we're saying goodbye to the bricks and mortar, but Grace hospital is alive," says John Fairley, vice president of college and community relations at St. Clair College.
Former staff, doctors and nursing alumni gathered one last time to reflect on what they are calling the "greatness of Grace."
"It was a great place to work, a great place to train at, and our patients loved us," says former nurse Ethel Dodman.
When the hospital announced its closing, those who worked at Grace either transferred to Windsor Regional, or the amalgamated Hotel Dieu Grace Hospital.
It was a tough transition for many.
"Very devastating, very unsettling for a lot of folks," adds Dodman.
The hospital site was vacant for nearly a decade before the city took over.
Many hoped the building would turn into a long term care facility, but that never happened.
The building has been in demolition since March.
"Fondest memory? The people, it's always the people, and that's why I'm here today," says former employee Terry Liles.
Demolition is expected to be completed by August.
