Mrs. Bernice (Oakes) Papineau, 93, of Snye, Quebec, passed away peacefully Sunday, August 23, 2009 at Iakhihsohtha, Home for the Elderly.

She was born in Hogansburg, the daughter of Richard and Margaret Brown Oakes. Her beloved husband, Angus Papineau and her 11 brothers and sisters predeceased her.

Bernice is survived by her daughter, Norma Reith, Clay, NY;

3 grandchildren, Dawn Valentino, Lisa and David Fleck, and Erica Reith;

two great grandchildren, Holly Chimber and Kristi Fleck;

one great great grandson, Robert Chimber;

and several nieces and nephews including a very special nephew, Barry Lazore and niece, Beverly Papineau.

Bernice was a communicant of St. Regis Catholic Church and was a member of the VFW Auxiliary of Massena and the American Legion Auxiliary on Hogansburg. She also lived and worked for many years in the Syracuse area before returning to her native home in Akwesasne. She loved basket making, embroidery, and always enjoyed her home. A loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt, she will be missed by all who knew her.

Friends may all Wednesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Donaldson Funeral Home, Massena. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday 2:00 PM at St. Regis Catholic Church with Rev. George H. Belgarde, SJ, celebrating. Burial will follow in Kateri Cemetery, Hogansburg.

Condolences may be made online at http://www.donaldsonfh.com.