Indian Time - A Voice from the Eastern Door

Walter Angus Benedict, 82 of Akwesasne joined his wife of 50 years, Glenda (Herne) in the spirit world surrounded by loved ones on March 19, 2023 while under the care of Hospice. Walter was born on April 25, 1940 in Cornwall, Ontario, Canada to Isaac Benedict and Louise McComber.

Walter is predeceased by his parents and siblings, Angus McCumber, Alfred McCumber in infancy, Patrick Benedict, Carl Benedict, Stella Pecenka, Marion White, Grace Peters, and one daughter, Brenda Kay, stillborn.

He is survived by five children, Aimee, Alison, Adam (Iris Caldwell), Angela (Dale Charleston), Aaron (Lori Clute) all of Akwesasne and one sister, Doris Kelly of California and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

As a child, he was the translator for many Mohawk language speakers on the Island selling their crops in Cornwall. As a teenager, Walter worked on the Seaway. He was in the Painters Union 256 for most of his career, painting radio towers and applying urethane coatings. This work took him to all over the United States including Hawaii and to the Republic of Fiji. His favorite joke was about the shark bites on both of his knees. He always loved to tell a good story! Once in Akwesasne, he taught his children how to hunt muskrat before returning to work throughout turtle island as an ironworker. He retired from local 440 after fulfilling his dream of working on the Freedom Towers and having a few attempts at retirement, parties and all.

Walt enjoyed hunting, fishing, telling tall tales, dancing, and visiting friends at the Legion. Nothing made him happier than finding someone new who hadn't heard his jokes yet. He was able to complete his bucket list by doing a drunken river dance through the streets of Dublin, Ireland on St. Patrick's Day 2017, and climbing the Great Wall of China in 2018.

Walter leaves a legacy of love and laughter. He generously supported fundraisers and volunteered throughout the community. He welcomed everyone into his home like family.

Friends may call on Thursday beginning at 4:00 PM at the Akwesasne Homemakers until 1:00 PM Friday, when his funeral service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing may consider memorial contributions to be made in his memory to the Hogansburg Akwesasne Volunteer Fire Department.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Donaldson Funeral Home, Massena where friends may share memories and offer condolences online at http://www.donaldsonfh.com.