Because Bertha distinguished herself with love and compassion for children, particularly adopted children, she and her husband established The Holt International Children’s Services, the largest adoption agency in the world.

Doman emulates these same traits; one who nurtures, loves and has compassion for all, especially children.

Doman grew up in Mapleton. After two years in college she fell in love with Dee Doman. They married, made a couple of moves, then settled down for about 10 years in eastern Oregon in the remote town of Crane.

Since the 1980’s the family have made their home in Woodburn, Oregon, where Dee and five of their sons work together in the nursery and construction business.

Shelie and Dee have given respite care to many displaced children in unacceptable circumstances, with special needs and the most difficult to place. The more challenging the child the more determined they were to help them find their self worth.

There was a constant flow of foster children in their home. Shelie and Dee make an amazing team that understands the delicate balance of love and discipline and have the skills that make many children wannabe Domans.

Shelie and Dee have 16 children; nine sons and one daughter by natural birth and four sons and two daughters by adoption. It is easy to see why one son said, “matching socks was not a priority in our home.” Shelie reserves every Friday as her day just to be with their preschool grandchildren and give their mothers a day off. That is about half of their 23 grandchildren.

One easily understands why a wrestling mat replaces carpet in their home. What better way to use coach dad’s skills to turn out champion wrestlers while managing the energies of all those sons that average 6′ 2″ and weigh about 230 pounds.

There are still four children in high school and one in junior high. Imagine drivers license time! An observant son said, “mom has disregard for chaos” and “no panacia for disaster.”

So far, eight of their boys have served LDS missions and nine have received their Eagle Scout Award.

Shelie continually gives selfless service to those with handicaps, seeks to lift the spirits of the oppressed, looks for the good in everything, carries a happy countenance and turns to the Lord for direction in life. She also enjoys painting with pastels and quilting. Is it any wonder why others look up to her with such deep regard?

Shelie is a popular motivational speaker who has a unique sense of combining thoughts that captivate her audiences by sharing her wonderful sense of humor and real-life experiences. She has led various organizations of women, youth and children, been actively involved in the schools and community and does not hesitate to speak up and stand for the right. Shelie truly is a most unbelievable woman and most deserving of this award.

Shelie’s mother, Alma Whiting, resides in Mapleton.