Dorene Malaterre, age 83, of Belcourt, ND passed away on Thursday, March 31, 2022 at Trinity Hospital, Minot, ND.

Alice Dorene Malaterre was born on May 10, 1938, in Belcourt, North Dakota. Her parents were Gregory "LiGrig" Malaterre and Alice (Keplin) Malaterre. She grew up with her family west of Belcourt.

Dorene attended Turtle Mountain Community Schools and later attended Turtle Mountain Community College in Belcourt. She was employed as a paraprofessional at the Turtle Mountain Elementary School for many years until her retirement. Dorene loved working with all the elementary students. In her later years, she would often say to former students she recognized, "Oh, yeah, I remember you, you were in my class." After she retired from the school, Dorene decided to return to work and was employed at the Sky Dancer Hotel for several years. Dorene enjoyed visiting with her coworkers and patrons of the hotel. She often said she worked so she wouldn't be bored at home.

Dorene and Henry (Mokey) Martin were the loving parents to David Henry Martin. David was the center of the universe to his mother, Dorene. To lose her son in 2006 was heart-wrenching; Dorene mourned the loss of David every day.

Dorene was a devout Catholic. She attended religious services weekly and spent time with Jesus at the Adoration Chapel. Dorene would often help others by covering their holy hour when needed. As mentioned, Dorene enjoyed the company of others. She would often go out for late breakfast or early lunch. Dorene was often seen at North 40 enjoying a big breakfast, her favorite meal, and chatting with friends in the community. Dorene spent lots of time with family, especially during the holidays. In her later years, she made sure her great-nieces and great-nephews had treats during the holidays and would also remember them on their birthdays, giving them cards and small gifts from the heart. Dorene enjoyed reading and doing word search puzzles in her leisure time.

Dorene is survived by her sisters:  Joann Desjarlais, Lillian Allard, and Carol Malaterre. She is also survived by her brother-in-law Melvin Azure.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Gregory and Alice Malaterre, her bother, Alfred "Coshish" Malaterre, her sister, Shirley (Malaterre) Azure, and son, David Henry Martin.

Rosary and Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, April 7, 2022, at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Belcourt. Visitation will begin at 8:00 a.m. with the Rosary Service at 9:00 a.m. led by Bob Desjarlais Jr. and Karrie Azure-Bauske. Mass will begin at 10:00 a.m. with Father Fred Alexander, S.O.L.T. presiding.

Laying of the pall by Chantel Desjarlais, Brittany Decoteau, Jenna Desjarlais, and Shelby Loran. Readings by Krysten Azure. Eucharistic gifts presented by Melvin Azure and Alissa Azure. Music by Alvin Poitra and Craig Lunday. Eulogy by Cathie Gladue. Casket bearers are Wade Allard, Wayne Allard, Jeffrey Desjarlais Jr., Austin Desjarlais, Leslie Lafountain Jr., Lucas Lafountain, and Kiel Lafountain.

Elick Funeral Home, Rolla, ND.