It is with profound sorrow and heartbreak that we share the tragic and untimely passing of Crystal Marschel, a devoted mother, cherished friend, and dedicated teacher from Minnesota. Crystal, just 32 years old, was the victim of a devastating act of domestic violence on July 18, 2025. The Morrison County Sheriff’s Office has ruled her death a murder-suicide, determining that she was shot and killed by her boyfriend, John Gans, 34, who then took his own life.

The tragedy unfolded when deputies and Pierz Police Department officers responded to a welfare check at a residence on the 600 block of River Valley Road in Pierz, Minnesota, around 10:30 a.m. on July 18. The check was prompted after Crystal failed to appear in court on July 17 for a driving while impaired (DWI) charge, and Gans, a former football player and coach at St. John’s University, did not attend a scheduled divorce hearing on the same day. Upon entering the home, authorities discovered both individuals deceased, with a .40 caliber handgun recovered at the scene. The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that Crystal died from a gunshot wound to the head, her death ruled a homicide, while Gans’ death was determined to be a suicide from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
### A Life Cut Tragically Short
Crystal Marschel was far more than a victim of this tragedy—she was a vibrant woman whose light touched everyone around her. A gifted educator, Crystal was a first-year physical education and health teacher at Isle High School, where she also served as the girls’ track coach. She was honored as the Isle High School staff member of the month in May 2025, a testament to her dedication and impact. Previously, she taught physical education at Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School from 2019 to 2024 and at Onamia Academy. Her colleagues and students remember her as a patient, warm, and inspiring presence who brought enthusiasm and care to her work.

Above all, Crystal was a devoted mother to her two young children, Ellie, 5, and Clayton, 3. Her world revolved around them, and she poured her heart into giving them a life filled with love, joy, and opportunity. Friends described her as a “warm, vibrant soul” who loved fiercely and always put her children first.

### A Community in Mourning
The devastating circumstances of Crystal’s death have shaken the Pierz community and beyond, prompting an outpouring of grief, support, and calls for greater awareness about domestic violence. A GoFundMe campaign, organized by loved ones, has been launched to support Crystal’s children and their father, Austen Marschel, who now faces the immense challenge of raising them alone while navigating this profound loss. The fundraiser aims to cover childcare, counseling, and living expenses, ensuring stability for Ellie and Clayton. As of late July 2025, it had raised nearly $9,700 toward its $11,000 goal.

“Crystal was a warm, vibrant soul,” the GoFundMe page reads. “She loved fiercely, laughed freely, and put her children at the center of her world. She dreamed of watching them grow, learn, and thrive. That dream has been stolen, and now Austen is left to pick up the pieces.”

### Remembering Crystal
Those who knew Crystal recall her as a beacon of positivity, strength, and kindness. She approached life with enthusiasm, even in challenging times, and was known for her selflessness and humor. A heartfelt Facebook tribute from a family member described a cherished memory of Crystal’s warmth, calling her “Crystal Lee Crystal Donahue” and expressing the deep pain of her loss. Her obituary highlights her passion for teaching and her favorite expression as a mentor, “good job,” which reflected her encouraging spirit.

Crystal’s legacy lives on through her children, her family, and the countless students and community members she touched. Her tragic death serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers of domestic violence and the urgent need for support systems and early intervention to protect those at risk.

### A Call for Awareness
Crystal’s death is a heartbreaking chapter in the broader crisis of domestic violence, which affects millions across the United States, often in silence. Advocates and community leaders are urging greater awareness and action to prevent such tragedies. Resources like the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233), Minnesota Day One Crisis Hotline (1-866-223-1111), and the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988) are available for those in need of help or support.

### Final Words
As we mourn Crystal Marschel, we celebrate a life that radiated love, compassion, and dedication. She was a mother whose love for her children knew no bounds, a teacher whose influence will endure, and a friend whose warmth will never be forgotten. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her children, Ellie and Clayton, her family, her friends, and the communities of Pierz and Isle.

Funeral arrangements and memorial service details will be shared by the family in the coming days. The public is encouraged to support Crystal’s children through the official GoFundMe page and to continue the conversation about domestic violence prevention. May Crystal’s soul rest in peace, and may her legacy inspire change and hope for a safer, more compassionate world.