Vicki Rochelle Vaira was born July 2, 1957 in Sidney, MT to Guido and LaVonne (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 different 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 friends, neighbors, her Dad, Guido, and several other Vairas.

Vicki taught music at various schools in Montana and North Dakota with her most recent and one of her most treasured being in Golva, ND. Over the years, she fostered a love of music in hundreds of students, teaching in schools and music lessons.

She was a long-time 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 Auxillary.

In February 1995, her son, Kalen was born giving her one of her favorite titles: Mom. Kalen was her biggest accomplishment in life and Vicki loved to follow his interests and hobbies, sharing a special bond. In later years, Vicki and Kalen enjoyed playing board and card games, attending concerts in Billings, and even a Denver Broncos game.

Vicki had a true zest for life with an ever-present smile and a contagious laugh. She enjoyed spending time with her friends and family; attending many Sip and Paint parties, a good garage sale, and always knew where the best restaurants were. 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. Vicki was often expressing her zest for life through her wardrobe and jewelry, always wearing something bright or bold patterned.

Vicki 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.

Vicki passed away on April 29, 2026 peacefully at her home in Sidney, MT surrounded by her family after a brief, but courageous battle with cancer.

Vicki is survived by her son, Kalen of Billings, MT, her brother Shane (Jo) of Richey, MT and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Guido and Lavonne Vaira.