Marla Brueske

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.