Valerie Kim Wagner

Valerie Kim Wagner (Ernst), age 67 of Dassel, MN, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2025, at Meeker Memorial Hospital in Litchfield, MN. She was surrounded by loved ones in her final moments. Val was born on December 9, 1957, in Minneapolis, MN, to the late Jacob and Patricia Ernst. She grew up with her three brothers in Grantsburg, WI, where she attended school through 8th grade. Her family then moved to Blaine, MN, where she graduated from Blaine High School in 1976. Val moved back to Grantsburg after graduating where she had her three children. In 1986, Val and her children moved to Dassel, MN, where she met her husband, Raymond (Ray) Wagner. They married on November 9, 1990. In their 34 years of marriage, Val and Ray enjoyed hosting parties and gatherings in their home, spending time with friends and family–especially their 6 grandchildren, and playing with their beloved pets. Val was a very talented scrapbooker. She made many scrapbooks for loved ones through the years, and they will be forever admired as artful keepsakes of cherished memories. She also enjoyed sending handmade cards to friends and family. She had a knack for making people feel loved on special days with her beautiful cards! The sound of country music (particularly her favorite–Reba McEntire) frequently filled Val’s home. She loved to go out for a drive to listen to her favorite stations and sing along to the radio. Val had a shining personality and loved to laugh. She was always upbeat and knew how to light up a room with her quick wit and storytelling. Her heart and spirit was well known for being loving, welcoming, and always helping those in need of a warm and caring home. All who knew her, loved her, and she will be remembered for her thoughtfulness and kindhearted soul. Val was preceded in death by her parents, and an infant sister. Val will be dearly missed by her loving husband, Ray; 3 children: Luke (Jenni) Ernst, Zach Ernst, and Miranda (Michael) Johnson; 6 grandchildren: Kaiden Ernst, Peyton Ernst (Ian), Katelyn Byers, Izzy Wagner (Derek), Shaylee Johnson, and Archer Johnson; 2 stepsons: Neil Maidl and Jason Wagner; 3 brothers: Randy (Linda) Ernst, Rodney Ernst and Kevin (Jean) Ernst; 5 nieces and nephews, numerous other family and friends, and her 2 beloved dogs, Cooper and Reggie. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Valerie Kim Wagner

December 9, 1967 - January 19, 2025