Collin Ray Vaira, 66, received his wings in his sleep on Thursday, November 16, 2017 at his home in Sidney, Montana.
Collin was born on December 14, 1950 in Sidney to parents Ardelle (Gibson) and Paul Vaira. The oldest of four sons, he grew up in Springlake, north of Lambert. He attended elementary school at Poleville and Springlake before starting seventh grade in Lambert. Collin graduated from Lambert High School in 1970. He attended Dawson Community College in Glendive and Northern Montana College in Havre, before returning home to farm and ranch with his family. Active in the community, Collin served with the Charley Creek Jaycees, the Lambert Volunteer Fire Department, and the Farmers Union Board in Lambert.
Collin’s life might seem too short to many, but those of us who were touched by him understand that the quality of his existence far exceeded the quantity of time in which he lived. He brought overwhelming joy to his wife and family and to hundreds upon hundreds of children when he unselfishly gave of his time to play Santa, which he loved doing. Collin traveled extensively throughout the U.S., bringing home many interesting stories that he enjoyed sharing with others.
Collin is survived by: his father, Paul; his wife, Cheryl; his daughter, Gillette; his step-son, Justin; and his brothers, Tim (Jean), Kelly (Jen), and Pat Vaira. He is also survived by a large extended family and a multitude of special friends.
He was preceded in death by his loving mother, Ardelle Vaira.