Brianna M. Zabel

Brianna Marie Zabel – Rochester Brianna Marie Zabel, age 37, of Rochester, MN, passed away on August 29, 2025, at home. Brianna was born on October 28, 1987 in Rochester, MN to Robert "Bob" Zabel and Ramona "Mona" Zabel (Hoffmann). She graduated from Mayo High School in 2006. In 2010 she went on to earn her B.S. in Elementary Education from Winona State University, graduating Summa Cum Laude. In 2011 she earned her M.S. in Elementary Education from Winona State University. Brianna dedicated her life to education with over 15 years of experience teaching and since 2014 has been guiding curriculum as PYP Coordinator and teaching at Rochester Arts and Science Academy. She is survived by her husband, Jon "Jonny" Yucuis; her two children, Cecilia "Cece" Yucuis and James Yucuis; her parents, Robert "Bob" & Ramona "Mona" Zabel (Hoffmann); her brothers Christopher "Chris" Zabel and Joshua "Josh" Zabel; her Sister-in-law Ashley Zabel (London); her nephew Hudson Zabel; and her cat Bosco. She also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family that will miss her dearly. She was preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents. Brianna lived a life caring deeply for those around her. From family, friends, students, coworkers, and more, above all she wanted to make sure that the important people in her life were taken care of. She loved spending time with family and friends, hearing and sharing what's new in life, laughing together, and offering thoughtful perspective to those around her. Brianna was an avid reader and at any given moment might be seen with a book in hand. She had a great appreciation for music, going to concerts with Jonny, listening to music at home or in the car together, and as a musician playing flute for the Chatfield Brass Band. She greatly enjoyed planning and going on adventures with her family. She had endless activities and experiences for her kids and led countless fun-filled adventures for the family. She especially enjoyed visiting and spending time at the family cabin along the Mississippi River. She loved all holidays, but Halloween was her favorite being just days from her birthday. She'd start Halloween music, decorations, and planning as soon as she was able. She'd often drink a latte from one of her favorite coffee cups with a message proclaiming "it's never too early for Halloween". Please join us in a Visitation from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at River Park Reception Hall at Macken Funeral Home, 1105 12th St. SE, Rochester, MN. There will be a time of remembrance and memory sharing at 3:00pm during the celebration of life.