“The Vetters: All We Needed” is a powerful and inspirational documentary about the Vetter family. It shows how the now-grown siblings remember their father John and how he kept the six children together following their mother’s sudden death. The children went on to set records in cross country and wrestling and participate in sports, including baseball. Theirs is a remarkable story.

The six kids—Greg, Mark, Janis, Debbie, Diane, and Juanita—all remember October 8, 1969, when they learned their mother, Marie Vetter, age 42, died suddenly. Social Services immediately became involved but their father made it clear: the family would stick together and not be divided. He was true to his word.

The family remembers how he was there for them by attending their sporting events, supporting but not pushing them, lending an ear, and working every day. As one of his children put it, “I just don’t know how he did it.” Juanita says, “Dad was the most unselfish person I ever knew.” Diane states, “He was my hero.” Footage of the kids competing in sporting events, as well as newspaper archives, presents the inspiration behind this remarkable family. They won collegiate and state championships. As each sibling except Greg—the reserved and quiet eldest—shares recollections, it becomes obvious how devoted this family was and is to each other.

This documentary will lift the viewer’s spirit because it shows ordinary people lacking in material wealth, pulling together to support one another. And we see the extraordinary mountains they conquered. We are pleased to award our Dove “Family-Approved” Seal to this film for ages twelve plus. This film is well worth investing the 67 minutes to view it!