Edward “Eddy” Vaira, 94, passed away peacefully at home in Sidney, Montana, on May 5, 2025.

Born on February 19, 1931, in Miles City, Montana, to Aldo and Pauline (Bertino) Vaira, he was the youngest of seven brothers. He grew up in the “Spring Lake” area north of Lambert, attending the one-room Petrik School through eighth grade and graduating from Sidney High School. As a boy, he had many adventures with his older brothers farming and raising sheep. Eddy often shared stories of herding sheep with his brothers near the Redwater River, spending long stretches living in a sheep wagon—an experience that shaped the quiet resilience he carried throughout his life.

In 1951, Eddy enlisted in the U.S. Army as a Combat Engineer. After completing Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia, he joined the 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team "Rakkasans" at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He deployed and served honorably with the 11th Airborne Division during the Korean War—service he remained deeply proud of throughout his life.

After his military service, Eddy returned to Lambert, Montana, to farm alongside his father and brothers. On December 23, 1957, he married Susie Whiteman. Together, they built a life rooted in hard work and love on their farm and ranch near Lambert, where they raised cattle, cultivated crops, and lovingly raised their nine children. Alongside Susie, he never missed a chance to support their children—devotedly attending countless sporting events and rodeos, always a proud and steady presence in the stands. His belief in God was clearly evident with his family faithfully filling an entire pew each Sunday at Pella Lutheran Church. Eddy was known for his ever-present smile, cheerful spirit, and wonderful laugh. He was a tireless worker, a man of unwavering integrity, and a devoted father. His strong work ethic set the standard for his family, and he led by example every day. Whether he was farming, fixing fences, picking rocks, or working cattle, he approached every task with determination, grit and purpose.

Eddy was the rock of his family—a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His love was steadfast, and unwavering. In his later years, he found great joy in traveling and spending time with his children and grandchildren, whether in Montana or at military installations around the world. With his dear friend and caregiver, Violet Tharp, he shared many memorable adventures to places such as Germany, Florida, Italy, Spain, Hawaii, and New York City, as well as cherished visits with her 17 grandchildren.

Eddy is survived by his nine children: Tammy (Dennis) Hogan, Travis (Annette) Vaira, Twyla (Troy) Donohue, Rusty (Becky) Vaira, Brady (Lisa) Vaira, Rocky (Shayla) Vaira, Quentin (Melissa) Vaira, Katrina (Casey) Danelson, and Leandra (Nick) Gebhardt; 26 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren; and many beloved extended family members. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Susie; his infant grandson, Bryan Hogan; his infant granddaughter, Lucy Vaira; and his six brothers.

Memorial Contribution