Joan Wagenknecht

Joan Wagenknecht, Good Witch of the First Order, Reiki Master Teacher and lover of all God's creatures, left the planet on December 24,2022. Joan was preceded in death by her mother Helen Schilthuis, father Joe Schilthuis and brother Hugh Schilthuis. Joan was born in Alamosa, Colorado. Later moving to Portland, Oregon where she was raised. As she grew older, she realized she wasn't like the other kids. She decided to spread her wings and left Portland on a train to Monmouth College in Illinois. While there, Joan acquired a Bachelor's Degree in Biology, met many great friends and the love of her life, a cowboy named John Wagenknecht. She married him August 20, 1960. He was lovingly by her side until the end. Joan worked hard to advance her knowledge in healing magic and would willingly share her powers with others for free. She made may Reiki Teachers and her healing hands helped many people find relief and peace. She loved the time she spent with the Girl Scout Mounted Troop 1184. She donated her time and love to the girls of the troop for 40 years. She stood in as a mother to many of the girls whose mothers couldn't make it out to work and often told others that she "collected girls". There were so many girls that she loved they can't all be listed here but they each held a special place in her heart. When not healing people and volunteering her time, she enjoyed creating beautiful sunsets, drinking margaritas and spreading love. She is survived by her loving husband, John Wagenknecht. Her daughter Jill, and husband Max. Her son Jed, and his wife The Chosen Jill. Her son Jason, and his wife Amy. Her grandchildren Jacob, Jared, Carrie, Chloe and Chase. Her sister Katherine Gulick (Bob) and nephews, Brent and John. A celebration of life will be scheduled within the next few months. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation in Helen's name to God's Green Acre Association. Donation can be made online at www.GGAA.org. Services provided by Hughes Funeral Alternatives, LLC in St. Louis, Missouri. Family and friends can sign a online guestbook at www.HughesFuneralAlternatives.com.

Joan Wagenknecht

September 15, 1936 - December 24, 2022