Vicki Schulz, 85

With a heavy heart, we announce that Vicki Lynn Fey Schulz, age 85, passed away on June 6, 2026, at her home surrounded by her children, Derek and Katie. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, warmth and humor that will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Born to Joseph Ambrose Fey and Leona Kirkendall Fey on her mother's birthday, Nov. 2, 1940, in Great Falls, Vicki was raised with her cherished sister, Cherie Ann (Fey) Anderson, in Shelby, Montana and on the Fey Ranch in the Sweetgrass Hills. As a child, she loved spending time with her grandfather, Pa Fey, in the garden, and as she and Cherie got older, they learned to cook by watching her mother and grandmother prepare meals for the ranch hands.

Like her father, Vicki loved to sing, which developed into a lifelong passion for music. Vicki’s wonderful singing voice led her to perform at numerous community events and gatherings, beginning when she was just 6 years old and up to her high school graduation. Vicki’s ability to sing and play the piano and organ by ear brought joy to many.

After graduating from Shelby High School in 1958, Vicki attended the University of Montana where she joined the Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority and made many lifelong friends while earning her degree in speech pathology and audiology. While in college, Vicki met Larry “Shag” Allen Schulz and the pair married on Sept. 5, 1964. Vicki and Larry eventually planted roots in Kalispell where they raised their two children, Derek and Katie.

Vicki was the heart of the home, an exemplary homemaker and extraordinary mother and friend. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the perfect snacks for her children and their friends — a true testament to her nurturing spirit.

Everyone who interacted with Vicki felt heard and supported. Vicki never left a compliment unspoken and made all who were around her feel important and loved. Vicki was known for sending cards and notes of encouragement, celebration, or perhaps just to say “hi” or pass along a written hug.

Following her divorce, Vicki found immense joy in sharing Montana’s rich history while working at the Conrad Mansion in Kalispell. Giving tours and training guides there was a perfect match for Vicki’s engaging personality and love of storytelling.

A woman of faith, Vicki was an active member in local churches. As she journeyed through life, her spiritual path evolved, and she found solace and inspiration within a fellowship of special friends who gathered to support one another and explore religious texts and theories.

Vicki felt especially blessed that her sister and best friend, Cherie, lived nearby. The Fey Girls cherished their time together, chatting over books and movies, spending time with family and reminiscing about their childhood.

As we celebrate Vicki’s life, we remember her not only for the roles she played but for the love she gave so freely and the indelible mark she left on our hearts. Vicki’s kindness and thoughtfulness will carry on through all who were fortunate to call her a friend, aunt, grandma and mom. 

Vicki was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, and her brother-in-law, Robert Anderson.

Vicki is survived by her children, Derek (Lisa Welker), his three daughters: Marlow, Allie (Dylan) and Lauren (Jack), and Katie and her two Labradors, whom Vicki fondly called her "grandlabs." Vicki is also survived by Cherie’s children, Joseph B. Anderson and Lisa (Tim) Schnee and their three children with whom Vicki shared a strong bond.

On behalf of Vicki, the family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the caregivers at Epaga Home Care and Stillwater Hospice for their compassionate care and support during Vicki’s final days.

Vicki’s family is planning to hold a celebration of life in early September. Please contact Derek or Katie for details. Should anyone wish to celebrate Vicki’s life and legacy with a donation, please consider supporting the Conrad Mansion, the Flathead County CASA Program, Saint Jude Children's Hospital, or a charity of your choice.

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.