Ms. Kaitlyn E. Wetherington

Kaitlyn was Born in Utah on November 11,2001 and went home to heaven on June 22,2025. She was raised in Grand Junction, where she attended school and graduated in 2020, setting the stage for a bright future. Kaitlyn was a dedicated employee at both Walmart for 21/2 years and for the last 2 years was a server at the Olive Garden, where she formed strong bonds with her coworkers. (This is where she made some of her best friends) She truly cared for and loved her colleagues and guests, often going out of her way to ensure everyone was taken care of and that her coworkers were always hydrated (she would always make sure the kitchen staff had water). Her passion for her job shone through in her work ethic and compassion towards others. Beyond work, Kaitlyn's adventurous spirit and her passion for music took her to over 100 raves, concerts and electronic dance music festivals across the nation and even to 2 festivals in Mexico, one trip was completely solo. (Man was she brave) She also discovered a new love for country music, and was excited to explore this genre of music. Kaitlyn had great talent in the world of art. Her skills knew no boundaries, as she excelled at every type of art she attempted. Some of her pieces have won awards and have been displayed in various art shows throughout the valley. She also enjoyed interior design, and she was thriving in photography. Kaitlyn’s generosity and empathy knew no bounds, whether buying drinks or food for friends, taking her family on trips, or spoiling her loved ones, especially her little brother Jax, (who she had a special place in her heart for) Kaitlyn was always eager to make sure everyone had a good time. She thrived on making people happy, she loved giving gifts more than getting them, and she never hesitated to help someone else! She would literally give you her last dollar or the shirt off her Back. Her kindness and empathy touched everyone she met. Kaitlyn's love for her family was unwavering, and her devotion to her dog. Charlie was incredible. She adored her brothers and had a special bond with her mother. Kaitlyn was an amazing daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, niece, friend and granddaughter. And she cherished her relationships with both her grandmothers dearly. In May 2025, Kaitlyn's life took a dramatic turn for the worse. Kaitlyn got sick in the beginning of May with para influenza and After weeks of not getting any better she was admitted to Community Hospital on May 28th 2025. She was in septic shock and almost immediately was life flighted to UC Health in Denver where she was put on 3 different life saving machines and was admitted to the ICU. There she continued to fight every single day to get the strength to heal; however, unfortunately after 3 long weeks of testing and treatment from over 30 doctors, there was no progression. in fact Kaitlyn was getting worse and was eventually diagnosed with ARDS. Kaitlyn was given the worse news that anyone could possibly receive. Later that same day she made the difficult decision to end all life saving measures however she was adamant about organ donation. Now, In order to be a qualified donor, (which only 2% of registered organ donors will actually qualify) you have to undergo specific testing. the results of testing could take as much up to 5 days which meant that she would have to stay we us until then. Kaitlyn agreed with no hesitation and continued to put her own misery aside. (what a courageous and selfless decision) On Sunday June 22, 2025 Kaitlyn passed away peacefully at 6:14p.m. She was surrounded with her immediate family and was showered with love and hope. Kaitlyn's liver was transplanted the very next morning after her passing and she was able to save the life of a 60-year-old individual right here in mountain range, her eyes were gifted to a 65 year old woman. she was also able to help an upwards of 75 people through bone, soft tissue and skin graft donation. so even in the afterlife, Kaitlyn is still helping people and giving her all to strangers and I don’t think anybody would expect anything less. She is a hero and deserves to be knowledge as one. She’s truly an inspiration to us all.

Ms. Kaitlyn E. Wetherington

November 11, 2001 - June 22, 2025