MERRILL, WISCONSIN — The Merrill community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Mariah Marie Hope Rusch, a beloved wife, daughter, creative professional, and friend whose life was tragically cut short at just 23 years old. Mariah passed away on July 13, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, creativity, kindness, and unforgettable memories.
Born on August 1, 2002, in Wausau, Wisconsin, to Jason and Jennifer (Sturm) Lemmer, Mariah was described by those who knew her as a bright light whose presence brought warmth and joy to everyone around her.
Mariah was a proud graduate of Merrill High School, where her creativity and passion for artistic expression began to shine. She continued her education at Northcentral Technical College in Wausau, earning an Associate’s Degree in Marketing and building a career where she could combine her creativity, talent, and love for storytelling.
She became a Digital Marketing Specialist and Photographer, a career that allowed her to capture meaningful moments and create lasting memories for others. Through her work with ML Creative, Mariah followed a dream that brought her excitement, purpose, and the opportunity to travel to different states while making a difference in the lives of her clients.
Loved ones remember Mariah, affectionately known as “Mira,” as a beautiful soul with a creative spirit and a heart full of compassion. She had a natural ability to make people feel valued and supported, and her kindness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to meet her.
Mariah cherished the simple joys of life. She loved reading, writing, drawing, photography, gardening, and caring for her five chickens. She found peace in her home life, spending time with her beloved dog Oslo, enjoying coffee, and creating special moments with the people she loved.
Her husband, Brandon Rusch, was the love of her life. Family members shared that their bond was incredibly special, and Mariah treasured the life they built together, including their adventures traveling to new places. The mountains held a special place in her heart as she loved exploring new landscapes and experiencing the beauty of the world.
Mariah was also known for her passion for coffee and the friendships she created while working at Ana Blair’s and later at The Pickle Jar. Her warm personality and genuine care for others helped her form meaningful connections with many people in her community.
Following news of her passing, an outpouring of love and condolences has surrounded the Rusch and Lemmer families. Friends, relatives, and community members are remembering Mariah as someone who brought happiness wherever she went and who lived her life with love, creativity, and purpose.
Mariah is survived by her husband, Brandon Rusch; her parents, Jason and Jennifer Lemmer; her extended family members, siblings, grandparents, relatives, cousins, and many cherished friends who will continue to honor her memory.
A celebration of Mariah’s life will be held on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at Corning Town Hall, with friends and loved ones invited to gather from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. to remember and celebrate the life of a young woman who touched so many hearts.
Although Mariah’s journey ended far too soon, the love she shared, the memories she created, and the beauty she brought into the lives of others will never be forgotten.
Mariah Rusch will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a loving wife, devoted daughter, talented artist, and a beautiful soul whose light will continue to shine through everyone she inspired. May she rest in eternal peace.
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