With profound sadness, we mourn the tragic and untimely loss of Crystal Marschel, a cherished mother, friend, and valued member of the Pierz, Minnesota community. Crystal, only 32 years old, was a beacon of light whose warmth, kindness, and boundless love touched the lives of all who knew her.
Crystal was a devoted mother to her two children, pouring her heart into creating a nurturing and joyful home. Her radiant personality and compassionate spirit left an indelible mark on her family, friends, and community. Known for her infectious smile and generous heart, she was a loyal friend, always ready to offer support or a listening ear. As a first-year physical education and health teacher at Isle High School, and the girls’ track coach, Crystal inspired her students with her enthusiasm and dedication. Her impact extended beyond the classroom, as she previously served as a physical education teacher at Onamia Academy, shaping young lives with her caring and encouraging presence.
On Friday, July 18, 2025, tragedy struck, leaving the Pierz community in shock and sorrow. The Morrison County Sheriff’s Office received a request for a welfare check at approximately 10:30 a.m. at a residence on the 600 block of River Valley Road in Pierz. Upon entering the home, deputies and Pierz Police Department officers discovered the bodies of Crystal Marschel and her boyfriend, John Gans, 34, of Rice, Minnesota. Both were pronounced deceased at the scene.
The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office determined that Crystal died from a gunshot wound to the head, and her death was ruled a homicide. A .40 caliber handgun was recovered at the scene, and John Gans’ death was ruled a suicide by a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities have classified the incident as a murder-suicide and confirmed there is no ongoing threat to public safety. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is assisting with the ongoing investigation.
The loss of Crystal has sent ripples of grief through Pierz and beyond, leaving her family, friends, and students grappling with an irreplaceable void. Her loved ones remember her laughter, her unwavering support, and the love she so freely shared. The Marschel family has requested privacy during this difficult time and will share details about Crystal’s obituary, visitation, and funeral services in the coming days.
In honoring Crystal’s memory, let us come together to support one another, uplift families in need, and raise awareness about domestic violence and mental health. Resources are available for those in crisis: the National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 1-800-799-7233, Minnesota Day One at 1-866-223-1111, and the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for calls or texts. Veterans may press 1 for specialized support.
Though Crystal Marschel’s light was extinguished far too soon, her legacy of love, kindness, and community will endure in the hearts of those she touched. May she rest in eternal peace, forever surrounded by the love she so generously gave.