Naomi Ruth Wagenknecht (nee: Quam) was born on September 26, 1943, in Stoughton, WI, to Ruth and Conrad Quam. Because her father was serving his country in World War II, Naomi did not meet her daddy until she was three years old—a reunion that became a cherished part of her life story. From the very beginning, God was faithfully writing the pages of Naomi's life with purpose and grace.

Naomi graduated from Stoughton High School in 1962 and followed in her father's footsteps by attending St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. She majored in Music Education and sang in the renowned St. Olaf Choir, using the voice God gave her to glorify Him. It was during these years that the Lord began to unfold the most beautiful love story.

When Trinity Lutheran Church in Farmington reached out to St. Olaf requesting a music student to direct a new church choir, Naomi's beloved choir director, Dr. Olaf Christiansen, selected her for the role. In the new Trinity choir sat a 19-year-old farmer named Jerry Wagenknecht (who had never been in a choir before, but his Mom told him "he had a nice voice and should help the new choir out").  Jerry soon volunteered to drive Naomi back to Northfield after rehearsals. What began as simple acts of kindness blossomed into a lifelong love. Naomi and Jerry were married on December 19, 1964, and Naomi graduated from St. Olaf in the spring of 1965.

Naomi devoted the majority of her professional life to teaching elementary music in Burnsville. She saw music as a gift from the Lord and delighted in planting seeds of joy and creativity in the hearts of children. Her faith was woven through her work and her life. She loved writing songs about Jesus and composed tender, personal songs for each of her grandchildren for their baptisms.

Her servant's heart extended far beyond the classroom. Naomi faithfully volunteered at the local nursing home, leading residents in hymns and familiar songs that brought comfort and hope. For many years, she quilted with the ladies at Trinity, stitching together not only fabric but fellowship.  Each of her grandchildren received a handmade graduation quilt—a tangible reminder of her love, prayers, and steady encouragement.

As an adult leader for the Castle Rock Hot Shots 4-H Club, Naomi dedicated countless hours to encouraging and mentoring youth. She had a special gift for helping young people build confidence through public speaking contests, county fair demonstrations, and lively "Share the Fun" skits that she enthusiastically directed. Naomi truly embodied the 4-H spirit of "Making the Best Better."

Naomi treasured her Norwegian heritage and took great pride in the traditions passed down through her family. Her homemade Krumkaka was a staple of every Christmas celebration.  In 1999, Jerry took Naomi on a memorable trip to Norway, where she was able to visit the home, church, and gravesites of her ancestors, deepening her connection to the family history she held so dear.

In retirement, Naomi and Jerry were blessed to spend 23 winters in Florida at North Lake Estates, where they enjoyed dear friendships, fishing, and many lively card games. Summers were joyfully spent in Minnesota hosting family and friends at their cabin on Lone Lake, where fishing, laughter, and more card games filled the days. Jerry and Naomi especially enjoyed Crappie fishing, in the evenings just the two of them.

Above all, Naomi's greatest joy was being a mom, grandma, and great-grandma. Her life was a testimony to Christ's love—expressed in music, in service, in hospitality, and in the quiet, faithful ways she cared for her family. She trusted the Lord in every season and reflected His light wherever she went.

Naomi was preceded in death by her parents; her in-laws, Elmer and Lora Wagenknecht; brother-in-law Larry Christensen; sister-in-law Karen Christensen; and sister-in-law Darlene Phillippi.

Naomi is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, Gerald Wagenknecht; children: Connie Dau (Tim) of Apple Valley, Amy Enter (Mark) of Stillwater, and Mark Wagenknecht (Becky) of Farmington; grandchildren: Jacob Wagenknecht (Sara), Alexander Enter (Kali), Nathan Enter, Nick Wagenknecht (Hannah), Grace Enter, and Sophia Enter; and great-grandchildren: Paisly Stevens, Loretta, Amos and Mabel Enter, and Eloise and Zoey Wagenknecht; brother-in law Jerry Phillippi

Naomi's legacy is one of unwavering faith, beautiful music, and steadfast love. While her family grieves her absence, they rejoice in the promise of eternal life through Christ and the assurance that she now sings in the presence of her Savior.

Funeral Service will be held 11:00 AM, Monday, May 11, 2026 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 600 Walnut St. Farmington, MN. Visitation from 4-7 PM Sunday, May 10, 2026 AT CHURCH, and also one hour prior to Service. Interment, Castle Rock Valley Cemetery.

Memorials preferred to Trinity Lutheran Church, Mayo Clinic-Rochester, MN and St. Croix Hospice-Eagan, MN.

White Funeral Home

Farmington 651-463-7374

www.whitefuneralhomes.com