Vivian Anne Kalmik, 71, passed away peacefully in her mother’s home in Williston, surrounded by her family. Her Faith in the Lord was the foundation of everything she did, which led her to volunteer countless hours and support for her community. She was a devoted community leader with a servant's heart, she dedicated her life to making a difference in the lives of others. Whether she was organizing events, lending a helping hand, or simply offering encouragement, she believed that every act of kindness mattered.

She was born on June 23, 1955 to Richard & Verna (Yohemas) Nicks in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. She was a quiet and shy little girl who loved to help her grandma and family run the Salisbury Store until they moved to North Dakota when she was a 9th grader in 1969. As a new student at WHS, she loved to be involved with as much as she could. Her servant heart lead her once again to the “Big Sister” program which paired HS students with younger kids with disabilities. She also volunteered as a Candy Striper and later a CNA at Bethel Lutheran Home until she graduated HS in 1973.

After High School she graduated from the University of North Dakota-Williston and from Minot State University with a Bachelors of Special Education. She was what you call a life long learner and continued to study, research and learn new things all the time. She then moved back to Williston and was married to Robbie in 1977 and had two daughters, Samantha and Allayna. She had many jobs over the course of her life including a teacher & foster parent to those with disabilities, the Director of UMARC for almost 50 years and working at the CVB for over 30 years!

Her greatest joy was being involved in her children's lives. She treasured every opportunity to fundraise and travel across the country and around the world with Sam & Allayna, creating unforgettable memories and cheering them on in every adventure. She was also deeply committed to the organizations and events that brought families together, including Kids Church activities, Youth Education on Stage, the Chokecherry Festival, Relay For Life, the James Memorial Art Center & Art Fest, the Miss North Dakota Little Sister Program, Thursday Musical and the list goes on. Her enthusiasm, leadership, and generous spirit left a lasting impact on each of these communities.

Above all else, her greatest pride and joy were her five beloved grandchildren: Kat, Emy, Linkin, Aisy, and Tor Tor. Being their grandma was the role she cherished most. She loved creating adventures, taking them on trips near and far, and filling their lives with love, laughter, and unforgettable experiences. She never missed a game, dance recital, choir concert, school performance, awards ceremony, graduation, or milestone. She was their biggest fan, their loudest cheerleader, and a constant source of unconditional love. Her energy, warmth, and zest for life shined brightest whenever she was surrounded by her grandchildren, and the memories she created with them will be treasured forever.

She is proceeded in death by her father, Richard Nicks and friends, Maro, Tim & Duane. Along with many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Vivian is survived by her mother, Verna Nicks, daughters & son-in-law, Samantha Kalmik & Allayna (Brenden) Stevens of Williston. Her beloved 5 grandchildren, Katarina (Blaise Mahar) & Emylinn Canerdy and Linkin, Aislynn & Taurin Stevens. Brother, Wayne (Dorothy) Nicks of Williston and his children, Michelle (Paul) Locken of Williston, and Caitlin Nicks of Bismarck. Sister, Donna Nicks of Iowa and her children, Naomi Luckey-Bothe of Iowa, Richard (Jen) Bothe of Williston, Joseph Luckey-Bothe of Oregon and Will (Kate Zanobini) Bothe of California. Great nieces & nephews: Bryn, Wyatt & (Eylie Streifel), Sailyr, Mackenzie, Victor, Aksel, Osro, Boedy & Royal! And her steady and faithful friend, Bob Erickson.

She will be remembered for her unwavering faith, a powerful woman of prayer, compassionate heart, selfless service, and the incredible legacy of love she leaves with her family, friends, and community. Her life was a beautiful example of putting God first and trusting in Him, loving others deeply, and finding joy in every opportunity to serve.