Mary Elizabeth (Whyte) Hanes

Mary Elizabeth (Whyte) Hanes passed away calmly on Saturday, February 28, 2026, surrounded by her children. Mary was born on January 14th, 1951, in Salt Lake City, to Robert King Whyte and Mary Irvine McNair. She lived on Beverly Street in a Sugarhouse neighborhood growing up. Her parents raised her with a strong appreciation of the Scottish roots inherited from both sides. Mary learned traditional sword dancing as a young girl and performed at local Scottish festivals. She also kept the family shortbread recipe alive, baking and sharing batches during the Christmas season. She was known among neighborhood kids as an avid marble player. Mary would tell stories of winning competitions held on sidewalk cracks in front of homes. She attended Highland Park Elementary, Irving Junior High, and later graduated from Highland High School.

Mary had various occupations throughout the years. She worked at Valley Bank, Mountain Fuel, Seagull Sales, and Seagram’s. Her career was primarily spent working for General Mills as a sales representative. Her warm and engaging personality was well suited to her position there.

Mary has always been fun-loving with a good sense of humor. April Fool’s often included things like clocks changing times, honey in shampoo bottles, food coloring in shower heads, or chocolate covered Styrofoam peanuts. She possessed a magnetic personality that drew people into her circle easily. Mary was tender-hearted and gentle. Her kind and empathetic ways were displayed regularly through caring interactions.

Mary enjoyed several hobbies. She developed a love for the game of golf. She was a member of the Alpine Country Club where she established numerous friendships. She was a long time University of Utah football fan and season ticket holder. Mary also appreciated taking long walks. Intently looking for lucky pennies on strolls was a favorite pastime. Over the years she collected jars full of these charmed copper treasures. She also made a habit of looking for sea glass while enjoying the peace she found at the seashore. Mary’s happy place has always been anywhere near a beach. She spent years traveling to Mazatlán for escapes from the cold Salt Lake winters. She especially enjoyed San Diego in and around Pacific Beach. Mary loved the sound of the waves, sand beneath her feet, and watching sunsets.

Relationships were constantly a meaningful part of her life. She cultivated long-term friendships and was endeared to many. She has lovingly supported her children and grandchildren through their varied accomplishments. Cheering them on by attending sporting events, musical performances, and other activities. The focus of her time and energy was continually on family. She was selfless in her pursuit of making our home a welcome place. Holidays, family traditions, and special occasions became truly memorable because of her love and dedication.

Mary is preceded in death by her parents Robert and Mary Whyte, siblings Marilyn Cook, Ruth Johnson, Jim Whyte and daughter Wendy Kettle. She will be deeply missed by her daughter Heidi Kettle (Eric Simonson) and their children Annika and Eric. Also forever treasured by her son Steven (Miriam) Kettle, and their children Elizabeth (Jordan) Watson, Jared, Audrey, Owen, and Andrew.

The family is grateful to dear friends who spent time with her and provided comfort in her final days. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the devoted staff of Spring Gardens Senior Living in Holladay.

Mom kept a collection of Hallmark ornaments called Mary’s angels. She believes in angels and we celebrate as she now moves forward to keep angelic watch over us until we meet again.

A private graveside service is planned at Memorial Holladay Cemetery.

As an alternative to donating flowers Mary would want you to pay it forward.