With immense sorrow and heavy hearts, we mourn the tragic and untimely loss of Crystal Marschel, a devoted mother of two and a deeply respected member of the Pierz, Minnesota community. Crystal, just 32 years old, was a radiant soul known for her beautiful personality, her kind spirit, and her unwavering love for her family and friends.
Crystal was the type of person whose light made a lasting impression. Those who had the blessing of knowing her describe her as warm, thoughtful, and fiercely loving. As a mother, she gave her children not only love but a sense of safety and joy that only a mother’s presence can offer. As a friend, she was loyal, empathetic, and always willing to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. Her heart was as big as her smile, and her compassion touched everyone she met.
Tragically, Crystal’s life was cut short on Friday, July 19, 2025, in a devastating incident that has left her family, friends, and the entire community in mourning. According to the Morrison County Sheriff’s Office, authorities were called to perform a welfare check around 10:30 a.m. at a home on the 600 block of River Valley Road in Pierz. Upon arrival, deputies 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 confirmed that Crystal died from a gunshot wound to the head. A .40 caliber handgun was found next to Gans, whose death has been ruled a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The incident has been deemed an isolated tragedy, with authorities confirming there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The news has sent waves of heartbreak across the Pierz community and beyond. For Crystal’s loved ones, the loss is indescribable. Her absence has left a void that can never be filled. As her family and friends now face the unimaginable, they cling to memories of Crystal’s laughter, her warmth, and the love she so freely gave.
The Marschel family will share details about Crystal’s obituary, visitation, and funeral services in the coming days. In the meantime, they ask for continued prayers, compassion, and privacy as they grieve the immense loss of someone who meant everything to them.
In remembrance of Crystal Marschel, let us honor her legacy by embracing one another with love, supporting families in need, and raising awareness around domestic violence and mental health. If you or someone you know is in crisis or struggling with thoughts of self-harm, please don’t hesitate to call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Veterans may press 1 for dedicated support.
Crystal Marschel’s light may have gone out far too soon, but the love she shared and the memories she left behind will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace, wrapped in the love she so generously gave to others.
Leave a Reply