Dorothy Lumpa knows a secret: All older people love lemon pie.

She's somewhat of an authority on the subject. At 79, she's still active lending a home-baked pie, a friendly visit or a ride to those in need.

She's been a helpful hand, a pleasant visitor and family to more than 30 people since the 1960s and says the work makes her life complete.

"It started with a neighbor lady who lost her husband," she said. "I try to help any way I can. I try to be family. I stay with them until they pass away."

When Lumpa isn't delivering mail as a volunteer at Mercy Hospital, she's usually baking or making rounds at the nursing home. She visits people she knows who are lonely.

"Our meetings always start with a smile and end with a smile," she said.

She's had people pay her money for her visits, "but I always put the money back into the food I bring them," Lumpa said. She's known for her pies - lemon pies especially - and her chocolate cake.

Lumpa also helps her elderly friends get around and do chores they can't do on their own.

"I'll take them to the bank, to get groceries, to the doctor, anywhere they need to go," she said.

In March 2005, Lumpa's husband was admitted to the Iowa City Care Center. Now her visits to the nursing home are more important to her than ever.

"It helps you get your feelings in order, mentally and emotionally," she said. "I feel I've been blessed with good health so I can help people."

- Jason Spangler