Marilyn Beverly Mueller

Marilyn B. Mueller: A Life Full of Love, Laughter, and Celebration

Marilyn B. Mueller lived a life that was full, colorful, and generous—one marked by love, laughter, music, movement, and the kind of hospitality that made everyone feel welcome. Born on July 5, 1931, Marilyn carried with her a spirit of joy from her earliest days. As a child, she loved to roller skate, gliding with energy and confidence, already showing the lively spark that would stay with her throughout her life.

Marilyn was married to Al, the love of her life, whom the family lost far too early in February of 1990. Together, they built a family filled with love and memories. Marilyn raised two children, Keith and Dawn. Keith brought Deb into the family, and together they had four daughters and ten grandchildren. Dawn brought John into the family, and together they had one son and one daughter. Marilyn was also blessed with many nieces and nephews, along with so many dear friends who became an important part of her life’s story.

Marilyn had a deep love for animals, dogs and especially cats. They were not just pets to her—they were companions, comforts, and part of the family. Her kindness extended naturally to the creatures around her, reflecting the warmth and tenderness she shared so freely with people as well.
One of Marilyn’s greatest gifts was bringing people together. She loved throwing parties, and she did it with style. Birthdays, Fourth of July celebrations, anniversaries, and pool parties were all reasons to gather, laugh, and make memories. Marilyn and Al loved their cabin on Big Sandy, and when they later sold it, they put in an underground pool that entertained family and friends for many wonderful years. No one ever left hungry. Marilyn supplied a feast, and her gatherings became known for special favorites like strawberry daiquiris and brandy slush—festive touches that made every occasion feel like a true celebration.

She also gave generously of her time and heart to children and families. Marilyn served as a den mother, a Blue Bird and Camp Fire Girls leader, and was involved with Indian Guides. She showed up, organized, encouraged, guided, and created experiences that helped young people feel included and supported. Her leadership was practical, loving, and full of energy—the same spirit she brought into every part of her life.
Music, dancing, and friendship were also woven into Marilyn’s story. She loved playing cards, polka dancing, the VFW, and any chance to get out on the dance floor. Whether the music was lively or familiar, Marilyn moved with joy. Dancing and gathering with others were more than activities—they were a reflection of who she was: social, spirited, and always ready to enjoy the moment.

Marilyn loved to travel, too. She embraced the opportunity to see new places, enjoy new experiences, and gather stories along the way. Her life was not lived quietly on the sidelines; she participated fully, collected memories, and made ordinary days feel special.

Her working life was just as varied and hardworking as the rest of her story. Marilyn worked at Red Owl (22 years). Prior to working at Red Owl, she worked at Dayton’s and Our Own Hardware. After Red Owl, Marilyn worked at LeBistro, Sears, Holiday Companies, Quorum, and Home Instead. In each role, she brought reliability, friendliness, and a willingness to serve others. Later, as a hospice volunteer, she offered comfort and presence during some of life’s most tender moments—a beautiful expression of her caring nature.

Those who knew Marilyn will remember her for the way she made life feel warmer and more joyful. She celebrated people. She welcomed them in. She filled tables with food, rooms with laughter, and dance floors with energy. She cared for animals, encouraged children, worked hard, traveled often, and gave generously of herself.

Marilyn B. Mueller’s story is one of love in action—love expressed through parties planned, meals served, animals cherished, dances enjoyed, trips taken, children guided, and people cared for. Her legacy lives on in the memories she created, the traditions she built, and the many lives made brighter because she was part of them.

Preceded in death by husband, Albert "Al" Mueller; great-granddaughter, Jazlynn “Jazzy” Baber; parents, Earl & Margaret Longton; brother, John “Jack” (Betty) Longton; and siblings-in-law, Luverne “Bud” (Joanne) Mueller, Ken Mueller; Angie (Oscar) Wiberg, Anita “Red” Tierney, Barb (Chuck) Raw; nephews, Bob Longton, Timothy Mueller and Steve Buss; cousins, Jane Kibler and George (Barb) Kibler.

Survived by children, Keith (Deb) Mueller and Dawn (John) Ramacher; grandchildren, Heather Baber, Kimberly (Allen) Schmitz, Melissa (Marcell) Branch, Jennifer (Beau) Schultz, Joshua Ramacher, Christina Ramacher; great-grandchildren, Malakai Baber, Tyler (Johannah) Schmitz, Noah Schmitz, Aiden Schmitz, Sam Schmitz, Alaya Branch, Jaylen Branch, Nora Schultz, Lucy Schultz; sisters-in-law, Millie Mueller and Sue (Jim) Wredberg; cousin, Alan “Bud” Kibler; and many loving nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.