Vivian D. Binando

Vivian D. Binando passed away at home on April 20, 2021, surrounded by her family, after courageously battling cancer and health issues for several years.

Vivian Mae Detomasi was born to John "Jack" Detomasi and Frances Zager Detomasi on May 13, 1939, on the family ranch in Roosevelt, Utah, along with her twin sister, Lilian Rae. Her parents purchased a fruit farm in Orem, Utah, where she spent her early years working with family and friends. She was an avid horsewoman, training, rodeoing, participating in queen contests, parades and horse shows. Vivian was in the first rodeo at the Brick Breeden Field House in Bozeman. She won championship belt buckles in barrel racing and pole bending at the national college rodeo. Vivian earned a rodeo scholarship to Brigham Young University, where she graduated in art and education.

Vivian met her life partner, James "Jim" Binando, and they married on Aug. 2, 1963, in Orem, Utah. They were married for over 57 years and lived in Utah, Hawaii, Wyoming, Wisconsin and finally settled in Billings. James and Vivian had three children: Cathy, John and James "Burf."

Vivian's educational career saw her working with students ranging from kindergarten through college - even being a substitute in her kids' classes. She was especially fond of the years she spent working with special needs children and their families on the Crow Reservation.

Vivian was very active in 4-H, being a project leader, organizational leader, on the Yellowstone County 4-H Council and on the State 4-H Foundation. She spent countless hours working with 4-H members and her children on their cooking, sewing, gardening and sheep projects - making sure that all got their records books done. In honor, and in memory of her, a scholarship program will be set up in her name in Carbon County.

Vivian earned a Master's Degree in Art and excelled in anything creative. She loved to work outside, gardening and landscaping. Her work can be seen by the flowers and plants in their lovely yard and at Cathy and Weston's house. A crack shot, she successfully led family adventures hunting for deer, antelope, elk and moose. Vivian could also turn slow fishing days into fun outings, picking chokecherries, hunting for unique rocks, or finding an elusive sensational strawberry pie. Vivian was a wonderful cook and we all enjoyed her meals - especially her clam chowder. No one was ever alone especially on holidays, as there always was room for one more. No one ever left the house hungry.

Vivian is survived by her husband of nearly 58 years, Jim; twin sister Lilian; her children, Cathy (Weston) of Darby, John (Teresa and children Matt and Joe) of Athens, Tennessee, and James (Erika) of Roberts. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Brock, Brooke, Bailey, Burke and Blake, whom she loved and was so proud of; and special neighbor Butch Smith.

Vivian always thought of others before herself. Her humor, direct opinions, work ethic and love of her family will be greatly missed.

In honor of her request, no formal funeral is planned. The immediate family will gather to reminisce on her drive, kindness and love.

"It was a most memorable and loving journey of 57 years ending much too soon" - Jim