Naomi Ruth Stanek

Naomi Ruth Stanek (nee Hinz) was born to Gustav and Eunice (Wohlfiel) Hinz on May 3, 1941 in Rolla, ND. She spent her early years in Flaxton, ND and later Beach, ND. As the daughter of a Lutheran Missouri Synod pastor, Naomi moved frequently during her childhood, shaping her adaptability and strong sense of faith. 

A gifted student, Naomi earned a full Osco Drug scholarship to attend Drake University, where she pursued a degree in pharmacy-an uncommon path for women at that time. She began her career at Saint Mary's Hospital, where she would dedicate 35 years of service, retiring as a respected medical-surgical ICU pharmacist. Her faith background fostered meaningful friendships, including close connections with the nuns who helped lead the hospital during her early years there. Naomi met Dale Stanek, and the two were married on December 6, 1969. They made their home in Rochester, where they purchased their first house and remained throughout their marriage. Together they raised two children; Mark Stanek of Lakeville and Sue Stanek of Rochester. Naomi also cherished her grandchildren, Angela and Heather Stanek of Mankato. Naomi shared a special bond with Sue's beloved boxer, Eloise. 

Naomi was deeply involved in her children's lives, serving as a room mother and faithfully attending countless games, matches, and concerts. She would always help with any homework or class project or make the best Halloween costumes no matter how tired she was. She was known for her love of finding a great bargain and for the value she placed on family meals together-no matter how late dinner might be. She instilled in her children the importance of service and community. 

A devoted member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Naomi contributed her time to quilting, funeral lunches, and countless acts of quiet service. She was a longtime member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church.

Throughout her life, Naomi faced and overcame numerous health challenges with resilience and grace. In her later years, she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. After many devoted years of care from her husband, Dale, she received compassionate support at Cottagewood Senior Communities. Additional comfort care was provided by Mayo Hospice. Our family is forever grateful for the care received from both organizations. Naomi passed away on May 4, 2026, at Cottagewood, due to heart failure.

Honoring her wishes, Naomi was cremated, with interment at a later date at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Preston, MN. The memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Friday May 8, 2026, at Maxon Family Cremation & Life Celebrations, with Pastor Timothy Smith officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service, at the funeral home. Any memorials may be directed to Channel One Regional Food Bank, a cause Naomi faithfully supported. Online condolences are welcome and may be shared at maxonfamilycremation.com.