Wilbert C. Mueller was called to his eternal home on Tuesday, March 28, 2017, at Cedar Community in West Bend, Wisconsin. He lived 96 blessed years.

Mr. Mueller is remembered for a dedicated life of service in Christian education. He worked tirelessly, always willing to help where his skills and talents could be used. He embraced any challenge placed before him, whether that was building a mission school, corralling rattlesnakes, fixing a boiler, or speaking in front of large crowds. He made a difference in hundreds of lives and touched us with his warmth and compassion.

Wilbert had a true zest for life. He always wore a big smile and had a humorous story or joke ready. He was an avid reader, an amazing gardener, and he loved music. Sharing new crockpot recipes was a favorite pastime of his. Special times spent with his loving wife, family, and friends were treasured.

Wilbert Mueller was born on January 20, 1921, in Elmore, Minnesota, the son of Reverend Martin and Anna Mueller. He was baptized on January 30, 1921, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Elmore, Minnesota and confirmed his Christian faith on May 20, 1934, also at St. John's Church. He married his dear Isabelle on June 27, 1943.

Mr. Mueller's college education began at Dr. Martin Luther College in New Ulm, Minnesota, receiving his teaching certificate in 1941. He obtained his bachelor's degree from Central Michigan College in Mt. Pleasant. Wilbert also received a Master in Administration and Supervision from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee.

In 1941, Mr. Mueller began his teaching career for the Lutheran Apache Missions in Bylas and Cibecue, Arizona. From there, he served as principal, teacher, organist, and choir director for Emanuel Lutheran Church in Tawas City, Michigan. In 1957, he was called to St. John's Lutheran Church in Glendale, Wisconsin, serving the congregation for 25 rewarding years as principal, teacher, and in numerous other capacities. Following that, he taught classes at Milwaukee Area Technical College and Concordia College of Wisconsin.

Mr. Mueller remained active in retirement. He volunteered for Cedar Community at Ye Olde School House, fishing camps, as a village board member, and as an executive officer for the Choristers. He always looked for ways to serve and enrich the people around him.

Mr. Mueller is survived by his wife of 73 years, Isabelle. He is further survived by his children Barbara Hinton of Belle Mead, New Jersey; Martin of West Bend; Sharon Heikkinen of Port Washington; and Cheryl (Richard) Zemetra of Olympia, Washington; and many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Mr. Mueller was preceded in death by his five brothers and two sisters.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Phillip Funeral Home Chapel (1420 W Paradise Drive, West Bend, WI 53095) on Wednesday, April 19, 2017 at 2:00 PM. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 1:00 PM until the time of service. Reverend Bryan O'Connor will preside. Memorials are suggested in lieu of flowers to Lutheran Hour Missions or St. Andrew's Lutheran Preschool.