Marla Jean Brueske (Prasil) of Viola, MN, passed away unexpectedly on August 2, 2025, at the young age of 62.
Marla was born on June 24, 1963, in Rochester, MN, to John J. and Helen R. Prasil (Burian). A graduate of Mayo High School, she went on to dedicate 45 years of service to Mayo Clinic in Rochester. On September 25, 1982, she married the love of her life, Gary Brueske. Together they made their home in Viola, MN, where they raised three daughters.
Marla had many passions in life, including gardening, tending to her flowers, watching wildlife on their property, and spending quality time with her grandchildren – especially baking with them. Recently, babysitting her youngest granddaughter became one of her greatest joys, bringing her a new sense of purpose and meaning. She was proud of all her grandchildren and grateful to witness her eldest graduate from high school earlier this year.
Marla also cherished riding motorcycles, road trips, and camping with her husband, creating memories that reflected her adventurous side. Her three girls meant the world to her, and she always took care of her family before anything else.
She was deeply loved and admired by many with a heart full of kindness and generosity. Marla always had a way of making everyone feel like family. A survivor of both lung cancer and a brain tumor, she had recently celebrated 4 years cancer-free. Even when her lung cancer returned earlier this year, she faced it with determination, already planning her treatments and ready to fight once more. But God had other plans.
Marla leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her—including her beloved cat, Grouchy, whom she called her “new kid.”
She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Gary; her daughters: Anna Bird (Jonny) of Las Vegas, NV, Jamie Stearns (Shaun) of Viola, MN, and Samantha Brueske of Oronoco, MN; her mother Helen Prasil and brother Brad Prasil of Rochester, MN; and nine treasured grandchildren.
Marla was preceded in death by her father, John Prasil; her sister, Terese; and her brother, Mike.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday August 16 from 10 AM – 1 PM with an open mic at 11 AM for speeches and memories at Rochester Cremation Services, 1605 Civic Center Drive NW. Rochester MN.
Gary and Jamie & family:
We were shocked to hear of Marla’s passing. Our hearts are with you during this painful time. Marla ALWAYS had a smile on her face and was ready to laugh whenever we saw her. She will be greatly missed by her family. Prayers and hugs to you all.
I first met Marla when she attended our 25th class reunion & a group of us, including Gary & Marla road along the Mississippi on our bikes. She took a picture of me while on the road, which is the only pic of its kind that I have.
I so looked forward to her quirky morning greetings each day for the last several years.
Though we barely knew each other my heart is heavy at knowing she has left us on earth. Heaven gained a real angel.
I met Gary & Marla a few years ago. I believe we became friends from that point. Didn’t matter how long it had been since we seen each other. We visited like we were together yesterday. I truly believe she was my angel friend on earth. I will so miss that beautiful smile she always greeted you with ❤️
Summers spent at Uncle Gary and Aunt Marla’s are forever engraved in my memory and on my heart. Aunt Marla was always so warm, fun and comforting. And she made the best rhubarb pies! We love you Aunt Marla… the world lost a great one <3
Rachael and I are deeply saddened by the news of Marla. We first met both of you as we were all vendors at a show together. This created some work and a summer time relationship between us for a couple of years. Marla always greeted us with a warm smile and a general curiosity of what new items we had to offer.
We will keep you and Marla in our hearts and minds.
Road 2 Freedom MRO Inc. Would like to send Our Deepest Condolences to All Involved in this very sad News of a Great person passing way to soon.
I will forever be grateful to mama Marla for adopting me and my boys when I was all alone in Minnesota…She was an amazing person and so loving and kind…I will miss you always mama Marla
Till we meet again xoxo
Marla, I will miss your daily messages, especially your last. To do our part to make the world a beautiful place and touch someone’s life. I remember the days working at the MIC @ Mayo Clinic, and your love of riding cycle. You will be missed my friend!
My condolences to Gary and the girls. My thoughts and prayers are with your family!
I was so shocked to hear this! We were best friends in high school. I really want to come on Saturday but I work that day. All my love to the family.
Jill Garmers
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Gary and his family
We are blessed to be neighbors of Gary & Marla and her early morning messages on Facebook are missed greatly … everyday as I drive by their home, i pray for the Brueske family and thank God for them and the Promise of Heaven ❤️
Gary,
It has been many years since we saw each other, I am so sad to learn of Marla’s passing. My thoughts are with you, your girls and all family and friends who are missing Marla. Prayers for comfort and healing as you all learn how to go on without her.