PLATTSBURGH--- Wandalie "Wanda" Papineau, 85, of 11 Monty St. died Friday October 26that The University of Vermont Medical Center.

Wanda was born on October 9th, 1933 in Dannemora, NY. Born at home Wanda weighed in at 12lbs. 10oz and from that point on was a force to be reckoned with.

Wanda was a stay at home Mom helping to raise children of many a working mother. To this day she remains friends and has kept contact with the many of whose children she cared for.

Wanda was a voracious reader and loved word puzzles. During cold winter months she spent much of her time knitting sweaters for family members.

Her real passion was her love for antiques, which she passed on to daughters Susan and Cherie. She would spend hours in the basement sanding and refinishing turning junk into treasures.

In later years she managed the antique and gift shop Finders Keepers. Customers would often come in for a visit with Mom and share a few jokes of which her supply never ran out. In addition to managing the shop she was also a vendor in the store with her own booth she proudly called "Wanda's Shitiques."

She was the motivating force in the family always teaching her daughters to "aim for the high apple."

As time passed, she demonstrated great love and pride in both her grandchildren and great grandchildren. They will never forget their many adventures with Grandma / Nonnie.

Adjectives that describe Wands: fiercely independent, fearless, funny, determined, unselfish, and creative.

Wanda is survived by daughter, Susan Prescott and husband Robert, daughter Cherie Ladue and husband Lance, grandchildren Bobby Ladue and Kristia Murray and great-grandchildren Kayla and Jodi Murray.

She is also survived by sister, Joyce LaChappelle and husband Leo, brother Gary Martin and wife Helen, sisters-in-law Diane Blake, and Rose Martin as well as many much-loved nieces and nephews.

Wanda is predeceased by Robert J. Papineau husband of 54 years, parents Grace and Earl Martin, sister Rita Baker and brother-in-law Francis, sister June Squires and husband Richard, "Tank "Squires, brother Tyrone, "Buzz" Martin, and brother Carl "Poochie" Martin. Niece Diane Wood. Also, her loyal and faithful four-legged friend Princess AKA "Little F'er."

Wanda's positive attitude and great sense of humor will be greatly missed!

Calling hours will be held at R.W. Walker's Funeral home Tuesday October 30thbetween 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM followed by a brief family tribute, and a reception to follow at The Butcher Block in Plattsburgh.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Elmore's SPCA, or the Plattsburgh City Library in her name.

To share a photo, story, or condolence with Wanda's family, please visit www.rwwalkerfh.com .

Arrangements have been entrusted into the care of the R.W. Walker Funeral Home, 69 Court Street, Plattsburgh.