Potter, Viola Mae Sias Meidinger

Viola Mae Sias Meidinger Potter went with the Lord on Oct. 26, 2008, after a brave and dignified three-year fight against leukemia. She was born in Basin, Mont. to Leo & Mabel Sias on July 27, 1936, and was the youngest of five children. She was a Salish & Kootenai Tribal member and grew up in Ronan, where she graduated in 1955 and married her high school sweetheart, Dale H. Meidinger, on Oct. 1 the same year. They lived from Ronan to Missoula, but settled in Arlee, where they built their home and raised their four children; Rick, Kim, Debra and Randy. Their home was filled with love for the family and simple country life.

Her husband, Dale, was killed in an auto accident in 1977. Vi continued as a single mom with their mail route contact, which they had been doing for numerous years. Vi had a love for kids and she "adopted" dozens of them from around the valley. She would lend an ear, extend hugs, share her food and even give them a room if needed. She stood up for kids many times during her tenure on the school board, and took pride in being the school board chairperson. All those who knew Vi, knew of her passion for anything purple, good music and dancing. She was the biggest kid at Christmas and was not able to keep a secret. She will forever be remembered for her zest for life and her upbeat "can do" attitude.

After 11 years of being on her own as a window, she fell in love a second time, with James E. Potter. They were married on June 18, 1988. They learned to square dance together and Jim showed her many new states in their travels. As her health started to fail, she was blessed with Jim's loving care as her husband, companion and caretaker, which he did with the utmost attention to details. Jim's around the clock love and devotion afforded her to stay in her beloved home and to be independent to the very end.

Vi was preceded in death by her first husband, Dale H. Meidinger; her parents, Leo & Mabel Sias; brothers, Robert & Ken Sias; an infant daughter as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She is survived by husband James E. Potter of Arlee; her children, Rick (Carol) Meidinger of Polson, Kim (Jim) Lehl of Dayton, Nev., Debra (Laramie) Wolverton of Arlee, Randy (Michelle) Meidinger of Arlee; eight grandchildren, two great grandchildren; and her puppies and kitties.

The family suggest donations to American Cancer Society or American Diabetic Foundation.

Shrider-Thompson Funeral and Cremation Services of Ronan is assisting with arrangements.