Vicki Vaira
Vicki Rochelle Vaira, 68, died April 29, 2026, at her home in Sidney.
She was born July 2, 1957, in Sidney to Guido and La-Vonne (Larson) Vaira. She grew up at the ranch north of Richey, enjoying all aspects of farming and ranching, in particular riding horse. She attended school at Goss School and graduated from Richey High School in 1975 as valedictorian of her class. She went on to attend Rocky Mountain College, Williston State College and Eastern Montana College, graduating with degrees in music therapy and music education.
Her love of music started at a very early age and continued throughout her life. She was a gifted musician and mastered playing several di_erent instruments with her favorite being her beloved accordion. She played in several bands over the years such as The Redwater Ranchers, the XIT Gals, The Fox Lake Group and the Vaira Band. She loved her years spent playing music at various events with her family, friends and neighbors.
She taught music at various schools in Montana and North Dakota with her most recent and one of her most treasured being in Golva, N.D. Over the years, she fostered a love of music in hundreds of students, teaching in schools and music lessons.
She was a longtime employee of Sidney Health Center working in activities at The Lodge and as a nursing assistant there and at Extended Care. Her bubbly personality, compassionate heart and knack for visiting made her a perfect fit for working with the elderly. She was always willing to dive in wherever needed, even learning to drive the activities bus. She enjoyed sharing her love of music with others, which she found a way to do through any job she held. She spent countless hours volunteering her time to play and sing for residents, often recruiting whatever relatives she could to come and perform one of her signatures, The Chicken Dance. By doing what she loved, her roles never felt like work.
She was a part of several organizations that she was passionate about such as WIFE (Women Involved in Farm Economics) and the VFW Auxiliary.
In February 1995, her son, Kalen, was born giving her one of her favorite titles: Mom. Kalen was her biggest accomplishment in life and she loved to follow his interests and hobbies, sharing a special bond. In later years, she and Kalen enjoyed playing board and card games, attending concerts in Billings and even a Denver Broncos game.
She had a true zest for life with an ever-present smile and a contagious laugh. She enjoyed spending time with her friends and family. She was always up for an adventure or a road trip, taking many trips to visit Kalen, to Shorty’s, the Fort Peck Theatre and the Medora Musical. She had a wonderful sense of humor and was always looking on the sunny side of life. She often expressed her zest for life through her wardrobe and jewelry, always wearing something bright or bold patterned.
She was deeply rooted in her faith, donating her time, talents and money to various organizations. She truly lived her faith each and every day by ministering to others and sharing the talents she was blessed with.
She is survived by her son, Kalen of Billings; and brother, Shane of Richey.
Visitation will be Friday, May 8, at the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Sidney from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Funeral Services will be Saturday, May 9, at 10 a.m. at the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Sidney, with Pastors David Huskamp and Tim Tharp o iating.
