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Bill Muller Obituary
Muller, 42, continued writing most of the past year amid his battle with cancer.
Memories and Condolences
for Bill Muller
104 Entries
John Flores
July 22, 2018
Nicole
October 12, 2011
When I worked with Bill in Features at the Republic, he always made me laugh. He always inspired me with his rare talent and intellect. He was always kind and just, basically... one of the really good people you are sometimes fortunate enough to meet in this life. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family.
Tracey Williams
October 20, 2010
I am deeply sadden to learn of Bill's passing. We knew each other from our days at UT Arlington . . . I always thought his second career choice would have been comedian because he always made everyone laugh around him, including himself. To his wife, Deb and his children, you were so very blessed to have such a wonderful man as your husband and father. I know thru you his joy, laughter and spirit will live on . . .
Kale
September 12, 2009
I remember randomly calling you about wether or not Zero Day
would indeed play at Madstone Theatres as was listed in AZ Republic
because Madstone had no listing for it. You answered the phone and when I asked, you said, "They better be!" because you had just reviewed the film.
Deborah Muller
September 6, 2008
I speak for many when I write how the pain and sorrow we feel today is just as strong as that we felt exactly one year ago. I am equally saddened by both the loss of what was and what could have been. All of us, especially the kids, were dealt this bad hand and we strive to make sure your memory and ideals live on in ourselves and loved ones. I love you and think of you every single day of my life. We miss you so much, Deb, Maddie & Hudson Muller
Honolulu May 2008
Deborah Muller
June 18, 2008
Dearest Bill,
Our family's first Fathers Day without you was a strange, bittersweet one indeed, but one where we knew our many, many wonderful memories of you would supersede the still-deep grief we feel from your passing. We made sure to decorate your gravesite with souvenirs from our recent trip to Hawaii, a trip you, me and the kids were supposed to take last August, but, unfortunately, never did. Maddie brought sand from Waikiki Beach and pieces of coral, I brought a mini snowglobe (the kind you collected) and Hudson, well, let's just say he brought his best behavior.
I never let a day go by without mentioning your name to the kids or sharing a memory of you with them. They both know how true and deep your love and admiration of them was, and this they will never forget. Hudson turns 3 in a few weeks and, boy, would you be ever so proud of his amazing athletic prowess & continued love of Star Wars. Maddie is just as bright and talkative and personable as ever, a testament to your DNA being part of her. All three of us are getting stronger and stronger as the days and months pass, but, oh, how I would give up that strength for just a few more days, weeks, months or years with you by our side.
I hope you watched us enjoy a beautiful day in Phoenix, a day filled with a few tears but many more laughs and fond memories. Sending all our earthly love and admiration up to you in Heaven, Pookie.
Love, Deb
Brad, Kerrie and Kate Michaelson
October 8, 2007
We miss you a lot Bill; we miss you more than we probably have a right to because we really didn’t get the chance to know you, Deb, Maddie and Hudson until recently. But that says an awful lot about the kind of person you were because even though we knew you for only a few short years, the effect you had on me and my family was big and profound.
Everyone talks about the kind of father you were. We know it’s true because your wife and your daughter and your son are part of our lives every day and they’re the best part of the day for my wife and daughter. I know that they cherish every minute of time they get to spend with your wonderful family – your extraordinary legacy. You did well Bill.
All of your friends talk about the amazing guy you were, about the many memories they have of you and how much they’ll miss those “Muller moments”. I miss you for the things we never had a chance to do. I had the immense pleasure of a few lunches, we had a chance to talk about film and sports, politics and sports, kids and sports, Phoenix and sports; I would give anything to have five, six seven more years of those conversations…maybe even just one or two more. We came pretty close to it though this last summer. I really looked forward to you and I coaching Maddie and Kate together – I was finally going to get a glimpse of that famous Bill Muller competitive spirit.
But you had a bigger fight going. And after seeing you wage it with dignity, determination, grace and courage I know every kid on the team would have been better to have had you as their coach if just for a few months.
So we all miss you a lot Bill. Not only for who you were but for who you were still going to be. But I know that there is a lot of you in Deborah and Maddie and Hudson and I am thankful that we all will benefit greatly from that.
The Quibells
October 6, 2007
Bill was such a proud dad. Seeing him cheer Maddie on at her soccer games would bring a smile to any parent’s face. You would think he was at a professional soccer game and not pee-wee sports. Bill would also gleam with pride (in his true sportsman way) when he was told how Hudson could throw a swim toy with such accuracy and force in swim class that it would nail Rochelle in the head. He would proceed in true Bill fashion explaining how Hudson had such a great arm and in the same breath talk about how Maddie had such a great kick on her.
The Muller’s parties were always great thanks to Bill. He was a true entertainer that could talk the socks off of anyone. He was the social guy of the neighborhood. He always made sure everyone was having a great time.
Halloween was such a great time in the neighborhood thanks to the Mullers. Bill, Deborah; Maddie & Hudson would dress up as a theme each year. Our hearts are sad that Bill will not be here for this and future Halloweens.
We are truly sad to not have Bill in our lives anymore. Every night we think about Deborah, Maddie & Hudson and how lonely they must be without Bill.
We really miss you Bill and want you to know that your family truly feels like family to us. We would do anything for your family. Shortly after you passed away I was swimming with Maddie & Hudson and wished you could have been there to see how great Maddie was swimming. She could swim all over the pool without a life jacket. You would have been so proud.
We miss you Bill!
Love Kip, Rochelle, Sydney & Ella Quibell
Sarah Sheehe
October 5, 2007
Bill you were such an amazing man who brought so much happiness to us all. Your laughter could fill up a room and I will miss hearing it. It's hard to believe that you are actually gone. I cherish the times that we all hung out as a family. We had some good times. Chuck and I promise to always watch over the kids and share our wonderful memories of you with them. I'm lucky to have had the chance to know you. You should be so proud of the way you lived your life and the impact you had on so many people. You are a true inspiration to us all. We love you!
Deborah Muller
October 5, 2007
Bill, it has almost been one month to the day that you passed away in my arms at Hospice of the Valley, and just writing those words make my eyes tear and my lips quiver. I miss you more than I ever thought was humanly possible. I miss your voice, your laughter, your touch, your kindness, your intelligence, and, most of all, your presence in our home and life. The house is so empty right now. I look all around and everything is a reminder of what we did together to make our lives so wonderful. Maddie and Hudson miss you terribly, and it might make you smile up there in Heaven, but one of our "caveman" baby boy's complete sentences is "I miss Dada." Maddie's first soccer game is tomorrow morning, and it will be so difficult to attend without seeing you standing next to the goal, coaching our girl. Bill, I promise that the kids will never forget you and I will instill in them all of the values we held up as extremely important: honesty, kindness, compassion, intelligence, perserverance and a love of sports. You were the best partner, husband, friend and, especially, father that I could have hoped for in my lifetime. I am so very sad that our time together was cut short by cancer, but I will always remember the grit and determination and positive outlook you had in life --whether everyday and in your battle with cancer. Pookie, I love you always and will miss you forever. Deb
Chuck Forsch
October 5, 2007
Bill was like a brother to me. Bill was a family man, always making time for Debbie, Maddie and Hudson. He had a tough time saying no to anyone. A big, caring guy, sometimes larger than life and extremely loyal.
Bill and my sister made a great team. He made Debbie happy and that was the most important thing to him. He would sacrifice anything for his family. Bill also made everyone around him feel better about themselves by the way he would talk and interact with them, making routine activities and stories into breaking events. Bill was an inspirational man.
That couldn't have been more evident than with his battle with cancer. I saw a guy battling everyday for his life, yet staying positive. A true inspiration. Bill never wanted you to feel sorry for him. Don't give him excuses, just make it happen.
We are all sad to see Bill go but I know that he is looking down on all of us, looking out for Debbie and watching Maddie and Hudson grow up.
Marissa Hamilton
October 4, 2007
I will miss Bill's insight and opinions about everything. We had many long long conversations before I would actually get to talk to Debs. From sports to movies to tv to kids to anything, there was never a loss for words or opinions. My absolute most defining moment about Bill would be at a wedding in Palm Springs when Bill said he was the luckiest man to be married to the most beautiful girl in the room. I'm so happy for the immense love he shared with his wife and children and will always remember him for it.
Judy Deutsch
October 4, 2007
During his long and courageous battle I never once heard Bill asking "Why me?" - This characterized the person I grew to love like my own son; he took life's challenges head on. Bill was a self-made man. What a wonderful human being he became!
I was lucky to observe him in his private and occasionally in his professional life. In both I gave him five stars. I saw his love for my daughter and my grandchildren; his loyalty to his friends and family. I saw his dedication to his profession.
Bill, you left a huge void in our hearts and our lives. You simply are irreplacable. You left a legacy in form of your children and I know that Deb is going to raise them in principles of your philosophy. I know you are looking down at us and smiling and I pledge that we will seek your approval for the rest of our lives.
Your memory will never fade and you will always be in our hearts.
Jay Lee
September 12, 2007
Bill and I were roommates at Texas-Arlington, and we also worked together after college at the Dallas Times Herald and at the Raleigh paper.
We met at a softball game between our junior college newspaper staffs. After knowing each other for only a few hours, we decided to go to a Dallas Mavericks game together the next week. A close friendship was inevitable: Both in Texas after starting out in New Jersey, and we were fans of the same professional sports teams. He went to the Shorthorn first, and I wound up there the following semester.
The pages in this guest book describe Bill perfectly, and I could fill many more with memories. But if you were a friend, the thing you remember most is the big heart. He helped my parents move from Louisiana back to Texas while we were in college, and he became an instant member of the family. All he required in return was a 20-piece box of Chicken Nuggets.
I talked to him after a surgery, and he made sure to tell me what he said to the hospital staff that was around him after he woke up: "I guess you are all wondering why I've called you here." I laughed, which made him laugh.
Bill brought things out in my personality that no one else could, like us performing the Eddie Murphy "You ain't go no ice cream dance" and the time we ran out of the Shorthorn newsroom screaming like a scene from Animal House.
Those are just some of my memories and I cherish them, just like I know his family and friends cherish theirs.
Theo Carracino
September 11, 2007
Memory is a gift both beautiful and cruel — the reminder of which comes with the sad news of Bill’s passing. The beauty of memory takes me back to the University of Texas at Arlington, where Bill and I worked on the college paper at the beginning of our respective careers. He was, and he remained, a man with a larger than life appetite for the joys of living. I note that common thread in all the remembrances of him, and it makes me smile. I think the word is “unforgettable.” From this point on, we will only have to speak the name, “Bill Muller,” and all that laughter and intensity will come rushing in from the past to brighten our thoughts. It will always be so. I’m certain that there are many of us who will be forever grateful for all those memories, even as we acknowledge that memory will is a cruel substitute for the man who possessed such a great capacity for joy. To his wife and children, there are no words that can ease the sting of such a devastating loss. There is only the hope that the vastness of the changes they face in the coming days and months remains smaller than the love remaining within. I take comfort in seeing that the young person I knew as colleague grew into an admired man of considerable talent and respect. It’s the mark of a life lived well, albeit one that was far too short. Rest in peace, old friend.
Bill Kula
September 11, 2007
I was deeply saddened to learn of Bill’s passing. The Republic team has been spot on in its description of Bill.
Bill and I met in my first journalism course in junior college in Mesquite, Texas, and I learned he attended my rival high school. Our then professor, who had a penchant for calling his favorite students animal names, dubbed Bill “Hammerhead” and me “Mallard” to our delight. That professor, since deceased, knew the student publications director at the University of Texas at Arlington very well and smartly pointed us both toward The Shorthorn and UTA.
That same professor also once kindly asked Bill and I to take his niece and a friend on a double date when we were 18 or 19, and for reasons unknown, I recall Bill driving the entire LBJ 635 loop in his car as a means of showing the girls Dallas. We finally ate steak at the Trail Dust Steakhouse along I-35.
Serving as the Diversions editor at The Shorthorn while Bill was the paper’s editor-in-chief in the late 80s affirmed my desire to pursue a journalism career and strive to write, and tell, stories like Bill.
May the good Lord bless Bill’s wife, two children, family and friends.
John Moritz
September 11, 2007
Bill was probably an 18-year-old at Eastfield Community College when journalism Professor Chuck Choate sent him over to the Mesquite (TX) Daily News to see if we needed a stringer. He was big, loud, opinionated and funny as hell. Better yet, he was smart and he wrote like he'd been in the business for a decade. My sympathies to his family and to all those who call him a friend.
James Hebert
September 10, 2007
I am so sad to hear of Bill's passing. I met him about seven years ago at a press junket in LA -- actually, he inadvertently introduced himself by bumping a drink into my lap, in his inimitably boisterous way. I soon learned what a friendly, funny guy he was -- just totally unpretentious, full of good humor and great stories. I always looked forward to seeing him at subsequent movie events -- he brought a lot of life to anyplace he entered. And I have to say I envied him his energy; he just always seemed so fired up and jazzed with life. My deepest condolences to his family; he'll be missed a lot.
Catalina Camia
September 10, 2007
Bill and I were young, eager and very green reporters together at the Dallas Times Herald. He was funny, goofy and a helluva of reporter -- even at 22 or 23 -- and always asked questions of important people and never gave up. More important, he was a friend when I needed one during a tough time and I never got a chance to pay him back for that kindness and generosity. I smiled when I saw he became a movie critic and an investigative reporter, because his encyclopedic mind for trivia and his quest for the truth were not mutually exclusive. Rest in peace, Muller. My thoughts and prayers are with your family and loved ones.
Lloyd Goodman
September 10, 2007
It's been 20 years since Bill was editor of The Shorthorn, where we think he wrote his first movie review. All of us in The Shorthorn family are saddened. Those who worked with him are crushed. Our sympathies are with his family. I hope Deborah, Madeline and Hudson can visit our office someday so we can show them Bill's name on our wall of honor, where it's been since 1987.
Sue Perry
September 10, 2007
I was lucky enough to hold Billy when he was born. He was the first son of my cousin, Sandy, and the love of his grandmother's life. He was always a special little boy, and as smart as he was cute. I know that his grandmother, Sue, was waiting for him. She would never allow Bill to go Home alone. May God bless his family and friends and may he help them in their grief.
Pamela Norman
September 9, 2007
I was lucky enough to sit near Bill in the newsroom for a few (wonderful) months. He kept us all chuckling and made our days lighter. He was always quick with an opinion or a great story. My thoughts are with his wife and children. He will be sorely missed.
Harvey Parson
September 9, 2007
My condolences to the Muller family and the Arizona Republic's newsroom. I had the pleasure to work with Bill in the newsroom and also the pleasure of sharing a beer over fantasy football drafts. Truly a great journalist and a great human being.
Tom Anderson
September 9, 2007
Every Friday, I looked forward to reading the Arizona Republic and Bill's reviews of the latest movies. I didn't always agree, but I always counted on his comments as a indication of which movies to see or skip. Even after transferring to Oklahoma, I turned to AZCentral.com for Bill's reports. When I read this week that Bill had passed, I was shocked.
Best wishes to all of his family and friends. He was a great talent who will truely be missed.
Dan & Melanie Cloonan-Schulte
September 8, 2007
We did not know Bill except through his writings in the Republic, primarily his movie reviews. However, movies are a shared passion of my wife and me, and we both felt a strong affinity for his perspectives. He will be missed.
Bryn Chancellor
September 8, 2007
I just heard about Bill from a friend, and though I did not have a personal relationship with him, I am feeling the weight of this incredibly sad news. I worked with Bill at the Republic, and for a brief stint sat right behind him. I admired his writing, his boisterous opinions, his obvious love for his family, the way he filled up a room. What an immense, aching void he leaves. To his family, friends, and colleagues, I send my deepest sympathies.
Candace Temme
September 8, 2007
Deborah, Maddie, and Hudson,
We are so sorry for your devestating loss. May God bless you with many wonderful memories.
The Temme Family
David Fritze
September 8, 2007
Bill was brilliantly funny, a gifted writer, and, for me, an embodiment of a lot that was great about the Dallas Times Herald’s heyday. The competition was ruthless, the papers threw everything at each other, the newsroom could be raucous and fun and up to the hilt in pride and ambition. Bill fit right in, even though he rose near the tail end. We were not close friends, but work friends, with a few unique bonds – DTH, the Cowboys, a love for movies and great journalism. Bill was unafraid to be himself, anywhere. He made us laugh even when we were in no mood for it. He was a bull in the china shop and we were mesmerized. Bill helped us take our life and selves less seriously. Yet we knew, he took seriously his work, his family, his loyalty to friends, his wish to share. Muller, your life was too short, but we will never forget.
Joel Zeff
September 7, 2007
I worked with Bill at the Dallas Times Herald. We quickly became friends. Actually, I didn't have a choice. Bill was always the first friend to every new employee that walked through the newsroom's door. He was quick to lend a hand, help with a source, or talk you through a tough story. He was supportive, funny, and was always eager to help. I joined the Herald toward the end, which was a difficult time, and Bill helped everyone with his energy, spirit and humor. We lost touch with each other over the years, but I would read his movie reviews quite often. I also remember seeing him hold his own on Bill O'Reilly's show one night.
Bill was more than a great journalist. He cared. He cared about the written word. He cared about his readers. He cared about his co-workers. And, he cared about his community.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
Wendy English
September 7, 2007
To all the friends and family of Bill Muller. . First of all my heartfelt sympathy, what a tragedy to lose someone so young and vibrant, may you find some solace in your wonderful memories of such a gifted and talented young man. I did not know Bill Muller, I never met him, but I LOVED his movie reviews. Every Friday, I just could not wait to read the movie section. Whether I was interested in the particular movie or not, I always read each of his reveiws because they were so well written, so full of "bon mots", wit, satire, thoughtfullness, intelligence, insight. .the list is endless. My husband and I go to the movies every weekend, sometimes twice. When deciding what to see, whether it was just the two of us, or with friends, the converstiaon always began with "Well, Bill Muller gave it ___ stars and HE said. . " I also loved his Oscar nominations, I always tried to "outsmart" him, but never did, though it was sure fun trying. I am so saddened by his passing. He was a big part of our everyday lives especially on Friday morning when his reviews were published.
God bless you who were so close to him, and very special prayers to his wife and two young children. Our heart goes out to you all. I hope as the children grow older they will read all the posts in this guest book and know what a very, very special man their Dad was, even to those of us who never met him
Fondly,
Wendy and Mike English
The Gunter Family
September 7, 2007
We will cherish our memories of Bill for a lifetime. The numerous times we shared a Friday night happy hour, a neighborhood get together whether for a child’s birthday or just “because”, watching the children play in the front yards, shooting pool, or just “shooting the breeze”. Bill was a very unique individual with a laugh we’ll never forget. He always had an opinion and wasn’t afraid to express it. He loved to talk/debate politics, sports and current events. Bill was a great neighbor, but more than that, he was a wonderful friend and an awesome father. He truly loved Deborah and the kids. They were the love of his love. We’ll miss you Bill. God bless!
Lisa (Mule') Black
September 7, 2007
I worked with Bill when he was editor of The Shorthorn at the University of Texas at Arlington. You couldn't miss him. He plowed into the room and had a laugh that truly fit the description of the word, "guffaw." He was always very talented, very funny, the first to volunteer to make the beer run, and yet a warm-hearted soul beneath the bravado. My sincere condolences to the family. It is obvious that he was much-loved.
Goodykoontz Family
September 7, 2007
We are heartbroken over the loss of our beloved Bubba. He was a family favorite.
Thanks to all who have shared their memories here - they are a source of great comfort during this challenging time.
Aliah Wright Warren
September 7, 2007
To the family of Bill Muller:
I was deeply saddened to learn of Bill's passing. I worked with all of Bill's national copy for the Gannett News Service wire. He was a wonderful, talented writer, always quick with a behind-the-scenes anecdote about his beat. For years, Bill would keep me in stitches as we discussed the cinema, the actors, directors, and their quirks and we would often talk about our careers and our children, even sharing photos. You have my deepest, deepest sympathies and I am truly sorry for your lost.
Joel Kemper
September 7, 2007
I was incredibly sad to hear of Bill's passing. When I was in high school a few years ago, Bill was kind enough to take time and give me insight into the business of being a film critic. There wasn't too many film critics willing to go out of their way to talk to a young kid interested in films but Bill did. That summer he took me to a film screening in which I was able to sit next to him and feel like a big time film critic just like he was. Though others flustered him after the screening for his opinion, I was the first one he wanted to speak too. I remember Bill for being genuine and down to earth. Every phone conversation I had with him would last for quite some time as we would always debate the recent films in the theater. Bill, here's to you, for inspiring a student to stick to his goals and never give up. I'm nearly finished with my major in film & media studies at ASU and hope to follow his footsteps one day. Thanks Bill for everything as my thoughts go out to your family.
David Fritze
September 7, 2007
Bill and I weren't close friends - but we always had that bond of working together in Dallas, where the competition was fierce and the papers threw everything at it. He was brilliantly funny (there and in Phoenix), a gifted writer and reporter, and sometimes a bull in a china shop. He also was loyal to his friends and committed to family. Bill, you were larger than life and will be missed greatly.
Curtis & Joanne Schultz
September 7, 2007
He was very friendly when we met him at movie advance screenings.
Jeff Gunter
September 7, 2007
Bill was a great neighbor and friend for many years. He will be missed my many of us on 35th way. I will miss the times we spent sitting outside in our driveways having a beer or two.... or three, just sitting out there talking sports, movies and of course politics. It was just only a few months ago that we did this. Our best "conversations" were always about politics. The times that we played poker or shot pool 'til early in morning will be with me forever. The Super Bowl parties and birthday/swim parties for Maddie and Hudson at you house were always a blast. You were always great to my boys and all the kids on the street. They still wear the Zathura t-shirts that they got at the movie preview. You knew that Michael’s favorite movie was Cheaper by the Dozen so when the sequel came out you made sure that he could go to the preview, he still talks about that. Jimmy loved it when you were out there throwing the football to him and making him run patterns. You touched many lives and in many ways my friend and you will never be forgotten.
Jo Lou Young
September 7, 2007
Deb, Maddie and Hudson,
I'll always remember Bill being a great husband and daddy. He was a wonderful sport at Halloween, always donning a costume for Trick or Treat. I can still see him playing a pickup game with Corey and Jimmy. Or sitting on my front driveway talking about, well, anything, while our kids played. Gosh, he could talk my leg off! And I remember, with gratitude, the night he and Jeff came down and helped us scoop wood chips for the play area. They had watched from your driveway as we toiled. But soon, they came down and said, "This is taking entirely too long." They grabbed shovels and helped us get the job done in minutes. He was a good neighbor, too.
God speed, Bill. Our block isn't the same without you.
Pat and Susi Votruba
September 7, 2007
Our deepest sympathies to Deborah, Maddie, and Hudson. We will always remember how Bill warmly welcomed us to the neighborhood. We wish we could have known him better.
Rogers Cadenhead
September 7, 2007
I knew Bill briefly at The Shorthorn, the student newspaper at UT-Arlington, where he was brash, larger-than-life and clearly destined for great things. The line in the Arizona Republic today about his ability to charm sources sounds very apt. At a time when people so often speak ill of journalists, he was one to give you pride in the profession. My condolences to his family and friends.
Rick Seidenwurm
September 7, 2007
Condolences to Bill's family from one of his roto-buddies in San Diego. We will miss him at the draft.
David Leibowitz
September 7, 2007
The hardest I ever got hit in my life was playing "touch" football with Bubba one Sunday morning. I was sure the aftershocks were over until I thought this morning about how much he'll be missed. In a sentence, Bill was the man we'd all like to be when we grow up. Great father, great friend, great professional. If 42 years was too few, well, I know he packed in a hundred years of love and laughter and life. And bad three-point tries. Love you, my friend.
Kerry Stumpf
September 7, 2007
Deborah, My heart aches for you right now I am sorry for your loss. We all love you and Bill very much. Kerry and the nurses on 3A
Bart Hubbuch
September 7, 2007
I knew Bill from our time together at the Dallas Times Herald, and he might have been the funniest person I've ever known. Wonderful talent, wonderful person. My heartfelt condolences to his family.
Amy Rouse
September 7, 2007
Mr. Muller, I did not know you personally, nor you me, but as i grew from a teen to today, i had only one person who i felt understood and saw films the way that i did..that was you. I looked forward to your insight and humor without even realizing that i had found a kindred spirit. I respected and cherished each article and ounce of insight you conveyed. May you be at peace knowing the love from your family and those in the Valley who supported and loved your words are forever with you. You will always be embraced!
Andrew Ramsammy
September 6, 2007
Not everyone gets to do what they love but Bill did – everyday. I had the pleasure of knowing Bill – sometimes sitting next to him, sometimes sitting behind, in a dark theater watching movies. I would watch, he would scribble, fighting to angle his pad to the screen, capturing his notes off the flickering light of a movie. Prior to many press screenings the atmosphere was pretty quiet, it was 10 o’clock in the morning but one thing was for sure, if Bill were there it wouldn’t be quiet for long. He would start the conversation and many times end it. He was the guy we all wanted to be but couldn’t. He was the one we waited for and he was the one who wanted to get it going – a power had but never flexed it. There will always be a seat waiting for Bill here on Earth but now he’s got the best seat in the house. Bill you will be missed…
Robbie Sherwood
September 6, 2007
I know he wasn’t technically born there, but Bill Muller was a true Texan. He did everything in a big way. He had a big personality, a bigger heart and a huge talent as a writer and reporter. Bill made an amazing career turn from hard news reporter to one of the nation’s best movie critics largely on the strength of his own, some would say overlarge, confidence. When Bill had fun, which was pretty much all the time, he had big fun. When he missed a shot on the basketball court, he missed by a lot. Bill, I’m sorry I yelled at you about all those missed three pointers (too many to really count) and I’d give anything to be out there on the court with you again. I can’t even begin to fathom how badly you will be missed.
Lisa DeForest
September 6, 2007
In the words of Republic columnist E.J. Montini, Muller blew into our newsroom 13 years ago "like a monsoon storm." It will seem like a drought without him.
Ben Winton
September 6, 2007
Muller made the newsroom come alive.
In my final days in The Republic newsroom before the big layoffs that ended my life there, it was Muller who steamed ahead keeping everyone cheerful. His desk was just a short ways down from mine, and everyone -- I mean everyone -- knew when he entered the room.
I wish I had taken more time to get to know him, but I remember and admire his love of life, tenacity for great journalism, and dedication to people.
Chrissy and Marlin Posvar
September 6, 2007
Our hearts are heavy on this sad day. Deborah, Maddie, and Hudson you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Movie Fan
September 6, 2007
Just like Muller, I too am a big movie fan and so I have been reading his reviews for about 10 years now, and I was very familiar with him. May his memory as a critic, and as a man, live on. Rest in peace, Mr. Muller, and to his kids and wife: hang in there. Mr. Muller is in a better place now.
Sydney Burry
September 6, 2007
I will always remember how proud he was of Maddie for throwing a ball so far, and the jokes he made about one of Hudson's first words "no".
Thanks for always making me laugh!
joe briggs
September 6, 2007
I was very lucky to have been a friend and neighbor of Bills for the last 6 years and will miss our pool shooting marathons and sitting out in the driveway and having a cool one,I will miss you greatly,
John Leach
September 6, 2007
Bill was an outstanding journalist with an enviable range - film critic to investigative reporter to sports writer. He also was a great guy with an engaging laugh that lightened up the newsroom. We'll miss him. Our thoughts are with his family.
E. Taylor
September 6, 2007
My sincere condolences to Bill's family. God bless you all during this difficult time.
Collin Toohey
September 6, 2007
Mr. M,
I am so very sorry to hear of your passing. You were a goto writer and while I will miss your wit and wisdom, I will continue to envy your talent, if only slightly.
You would not know me or recognize me, but you once took pity on me and handed me an extra ticket to a sold out movie preview "Serenity" a few years ago. I thanked you, but looking back I think I didn't get to thank you enough, as it was an act of kindness that I really took to heart. So thank you. My prayers and thoughts go to you and your family.
Also, say Hello to Gonzo (Hunter S. Thompson) and R.A. Heinlein for me.
K. Weatherbee
September 6, 2007
Bill Muller was my favorite movie critic. I always looked forward to his insightful reviews and loved his sense of humor. I will miss reading his film commentaries very much. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Kathy Cano-Murillo
September 6, 2007
I sat next to Bill for several years in the features newsroom. The memories are priceless. He often read his reader mail out loud to us and his "colorful" responses. Sometimes while writing reviews, he'd break into song (ranging from Eminem to Ethel Merman!). My favorite Muller review was the Catwoman one where he demanded that Halle Berry return her Oscar. He often teased me that I was too nice to write a decent movie review. He'd send me out to see a film and say: "Go get it Kathy! Sharpen your fangs and rip into it!" or he would tell me "Remember. It's just a movie, not a person, you aren't going to hurt it's feelings if you say mean things about it!" I'll miss Bill so much, and I know the features team will too. He *loved* writing about movies, and put more into it than anyone I know, not because he felt he had to, but because he truly wanted to. Bill led a blessed life, doing what he enjoyed most and having a beautiful family to come home too. If he was ever in a bad mood, all you had to do was mention his kids, and his face would light up. He would break out the pictures, and the world was right again. As rough and loud as he seemed at times, he was really just a big, soft teddy bear. That I know because I'd hear him call his wife several times during each day and always end the conversation with "I love you". Well, we all love YOU, Bill. Blessings and love to Deb and the kids and everyone else who is missing him right now.
David Helmsing
September 6, 2007
It was always a pleasure watching Bill interact with his beautiful wife Deborah and his adorable children Maddie and Hudson. Just listening to him talk about his family and the look in his eyes you knew how much he loved them.
Bill was a great friend. I could spend hours (and we did!) discussing our families, sports, fantasy football, baseball and enjoying a few beers. I loved having him in my fantasy sport leagues because he raised the level of competition many, many levels. Mully's Heroes will never be forgotten!
Heaven just received a beautiful soul. Bill will be greatly missed and always loved.
Vinton Supplee
September 6, 2007
I was lucky enough to be Bill's boss for several years, but far more fortunate to have been his friend. As many others have noted, he was a big guy with a big personality, full of enthusiasms and passions. He was also one of the funniest guys you could ever know, and you were always glad to see him because you knew you'd soon be laughing. He was so full of life that it's hard to believe he's gone now. The world simply isn't as much fun without him in it, and I'll miss him every day the rest of my life.
Jon Sidener
September 6, 2007
Mullah,
How's the beer in heaven, dude? How's the golf? Odd that you would leave on the first day of the NFL season. Guess you've got the ultimate seats this year.
We miss you, big guy.
Mark Shaffer
September 6, 2007
Mully was one of the best friends a person could have. Thanks for all the memories from the NCAA basketball tourneys, the Cardinals games, fantasy football league, the great Super Bowl parties, and, best of all, talking Texas.
Angie Morton
September 6, 2007
My husband and I are big movie fans. When Bill's reviews weren't appearing as often, we wondered aloud if he was OK. I've been in AZ for 10 years, and it was only until I noticed Bill's columns were missing from the paper that I realized how much I'd enjoyed and looked forward to his contributions. We were so sorry to hear of his passing, and send our prayers to his family and friends during this time.
Larry Rodgers
September 6, 2007
Whether he was writing a movie review on deadline, giving players and coaches an earful at a Cardinals or Diamondbacks game, rolling around on the floor with his children or debating the talents of a movie or music star, Bill lived life with more gusto than anyone you'll ever meet. It was an honor to work with him at The Republic, and a true pleasure to share his friendship and never-ending humor.
Ken Reinstein
September 6, 2007
I had the honor to interact with Bill since his days of investigative journalism in the mid-'90s as a green PR guy, through earlier this year on an independent film project. He was a great reporter, and professional to the end! My thoughts and prayers to his family.
Scott Jeffries
September 6, 2007
While I didn't ever really agree with his reviews, I knew that if he didn't have high praise for a film it was going to be something that I really liked. Mr. Muller will be missed. My condolences go out to his family.
Kelly L
September 6, 2007
So sorry to hear the passing of Bill. I will miss reading his reviews. My condolences to the family he left behind. His work was a gift to us.
Chuck Kelly
September 6, 2007
Bill was a great competitor, on the basketball court and in the news game. He was a smart, aggressive, witty guy, and he used his many skills brilliantly. You always got the best from Bill when you just turned him loose. Wherever you are, Bill, go ahead and shoot the three-pointer.
Jenny Ignaszewski
September 6, 2007
To Bill's Family and many friends - I'm very sorry for your loss. Bill was a wonderful guy, always fun to be around and never without a good joke and laugh. We are thinking of you at this difficult time.
Kelly Ettenborough
September 6, 2007
Bill was a great colleague at the newspaper, smart and funny and really good at his job. But what I'll remember most is how much he loved his family - and especially how much he adored his children.
J H
September 6, 2007
My heartfelt condolences go out to Bill and his family. I met Bill while working as a film critic for a local magazine and always found him personable and knowledgeable. His reviews were one of four that I trusted from around the country.
Scott Craven
September 6, 2007
Some in features would joke about being caught in the Muller vortex because when he wanted to talk about something, there was no escape. He could command a conversation, if not a room. What I would learn over the years is that his heart was as big as his voice. My sympathies to his family.
Nicole Carroll
September 6, 2007
There is incredible sadness today. Bill and I worked together for many years, and he was always up for chatting about movies and work. But he most enjoyed talking about his kids. He would stop colleagues to show off the latest pictures or talk about milestones in their lives. His desk is covered in photos of his children. He is known Valleywide as a great reporter and critic, but he was most proud of being a dad.
Jeri Haley
September 6, 2007
I'm so sorry to hear about the death of Bill Mueller. I had no idea he was sick, but deeply enjoyed reading his articles. He will be greatly missed.
My thoughts and paryers are with his family!
Shana (Hirst) Schwarz
September 6, 2007
I had the pleasure of working with Bill when I was in high school, writing for the Republic as a movie critic in the ALT section. Bill used to tease me, calling me "kiddo," always bringing me candy, and frequently asking "what are you- 12 years old?" I remember many a heated debate about movies, old and new, and especially about the Oscars during awards seasons. It was Bill's encouragement that led me to major in journalism at ASU, and when our paths crossed again during my Senior year internship, I remember Bill looking me in the eye and telling me how sure he was that I'd make it someday. I am devastated by the news that Bill is gone, and offer my sincere condolences to his wife, children, family and friends. And Bill, if I ever do "make it" someday, I'll owe it, in great part, to you.
lydia
September 6, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jennifer P
September 6, 2007
Bill, your work was amazing. As a young, aspiring journalist in the Valley years ago, I remember reading your stuff and enjoying your innate ability to illustrate a story with your words, and pepper it with your humor. I know what it's like to rarely receive e-mails praising your work, but rather the antithesis. I wish I had sent you one in your lifetime to give you the encouragement every journalist needs.
Well done.
My deepest sympathies and prayers go out to Mr. Muller's family in this deeply painful time. Remember to celebrate his life everyday with a smile and live in a way that would honor his legacy. God bless
Frank Murphy
September 6, 2007
God Bless You & Your Family
Jennifer
September 6, 2007
I will miss his reviews, and what a wonderful article about him. My prayers and thoughts are with his family and friends.
KEVIN DAVIDSON
September 6, 2007
To the Muller family. It was truly an honor to serve you in your time of need. The tremendous love for Bill was so evident and moving, may God bless your family, wife and children.
Kevin & Craig
American Ambulance Hospice Team
Vik Krishnaswamy
September 6, 2007
I was shocked and saddened to hear the news. . My deepest sympathies to the Muller Family. What a terrible loss. I will miss reading Bill's columns.
Ray Hammond
September 6, 2007
I moved to Arizona not long before Bill started as the film critic at the Republic. I looked forward to his reviews every week and would base my viewing decisions largely on the merits of his well thought-out critiques. Not surprisingly, I rarely disagreed with his ratings.
Bill's infectious sarcasm was the highlight of his reviews. A favorite example was his comparison of Mission Impossible 2's multiple mask sequences to a Scooby Doo episode.
Observant readers can attest to his work ethic by the numerous timely and insightful reviews he wrote each week. He will be missed and my heart goes out to his young family.
Paul Maryniak
September 6, 2007
As a journalist, Bill was a pro.
As a human being, he was an utter delight.
Though his time with us was much too short, the fact he was both is a legacy few people leave behind.
steve
September 6, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
l j
September 6, 2007
Bill, from b-ball to films to fantasy football, I'm glad I knew you. You did a lot in your time here, and I wish your family well in this time of sorrow.
abe kwok
September 6, 2007
exchanging lines from 'raising arizona' and 'fargo' ... beers and dallas cowboys games and celebrating/lamenting mully's heroes and kwokpots ... lunch runs of chicken chicken chicken ... the funnest wedding ever in l.a.; maddy's soccer kicks and hudson's basketball tosses ... pool volleyball, tipping chairs and jumping into neighbors' yards to fetch mishits ... honest advice, loud disagreements and belly laughs ... i'll remember all that, and more. always
Michelle
September 6, 2007
I always considered Bill Muller my friend. But I never knew if he considered me his friend. One night, I attended one of his movie & discussions. It was Pan's Labyrinth and the discussion was heated! Bill was in full force debating a full crowd at the Harkins Cinema. To my surprise, he turned and saw me. He stopped everything, the room went silent, and he said "Hello, good to see you".
Both he & his writing meant the world to me. I'll miss my feisty friend.
Randy Montgomery
September 6, 2007
Bill was a fellow collegue and an all-around great guy. You will be greatly missed. Heartfelt condolences to his wife and children.
Mary Anne Doty
September 6, 2007
I was an avid reader of his reviews and a big fan of Bill's. He will be sorely missed. My deepest sympathies.
Erica
September 6, 2007
I had the chance to work with Bill Muller over the last few years. Great guy, he will be truly missed.
Dean Moomey
September 6, 2007
I'm shocked, what a great guy. I would see him at channel 12 on Fridays for the Midday show and he was always so kind and quick to tell me about the weekend box office hits. My deepest sympathy to the family and all the friends Bill left behind.
Dean
Eric Muehlstedt
September 6, 2007
I enjoyed Bill's movie reviews immensely. He was a true journalist. My sympathies go to his family and friends. He will be missed.
Margo Valentine
September 6, 2007
I will miss Bill's extraordinary movie reviews. I never failed to read them, although I sometimes disagreed with him! My thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family during this time of loss.
Jon Gedney
September 6, 2007
It was great reading your reviews over the past couple years. Even though I didn't always agree with you, you always had something important to say. You'll be missed.
Paige Devitt
September 6, 2007
He was a fabulous critic with great insights and not a hint of snobbiness. He seemed like a great dude and his reviews will be very missed!
Stephen Takesian
September 6, 2007
Went to Hollywood with Bill for a Movie Junket. Bill Was excellent at what he did. He loved his Job
Rest in Peace
RDZ
September 6, 2007
My heart goes out to your family. What a loss at such a young age. My prayers to you, Mrs. Muller and your babies. I enjoyed reading everything Bill Muller wrote. He had a gift!
Laurie Roberts
September 6, 2007
What a sad day and a huge loss for this newspaper and for this community. Bill was a one-of-a-kind guy with a big talent and a big heart. My sympathies go out today to his family.
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Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
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These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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