"She's one of those solid people where service and giving are a way of life," Rice said. "She doesn't think she's anything special because to her, that's just what you do."

Countless neighbors and friends have received clothing items that Whetman has sewn or crocheted.

"She was always in the know and aware of people," agreed Valerie Terry, a daughter who lives in Holladay. "Mom is someone that anyone could go to if they had a problem. Our friends all called her Mom."

On top of caring for others, she's always been there for her own four daughters, 13 grandchildren and soon-to-be 13 great-grandchildren, Terry said. She's always been one of the kids at the party, even standing on her head to get a laugh.

Like the old Sorensen home, Whetman has made her home a gathering place. It was always the open door policy, anyone was welcome, Rice said. She could make a friend out of anybody and often does, especially while traveling, which she does extensively.

Regardless of where she goes, Whetman said she's always glad to come back home to Draper and the mountains. There's no where quite like it.

---

E-mail: sbills@desnews.com