Chuck Muelhaupt

Chuck Muelhaupt

Des Moines

Chuck Muelhaupt died gracefully at Iowa Jewish Life Center's Memory Care, March 31, 2012 after a full life. Born to Edward and Dorothy (O'Shea) Muelhaupt on December 11, 1935 he was raised in Des Moines with his five siblings. Chuck graduated from Dowling High School in 1953 and from Iowa State University in 1957, where he was Co-Captain of the ISU football team. He remained devoted to Dowling and ISU and its football program his entire life.

Chuck served his country overseas as a lieutenant in the United States Air Force and made the All-Star Armed Forces football team. After completing his service honorably, Chuck played professional football for the Buffalo Bills. When his father's health waned, Chuck came back to Iowa to take over the family business. Chuck led Des Moines Cold Storage as its President for over 40 years until August 2011. He also served on the Board of the International Association of Refrigerated Warehouses and was involved as a philanthropist and supporter of numerous Des Moines charities.

Chuck was a diehard handball player and a big supporter of the YMCA. Chuck loved to ride his motorcycles and race his vintage cars. He also had a passion for Formula One racing and enjoyed traveling abroad with his wife to many of these races. Chuck's adventuresome spirit will live on with his family and friends.

Chuck is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Suzy; his daughter Natasha Fodrey (Ron); his sons E.C. Muelhaupt III (Kristin) and Calvin Muelhaupt (Brandi); his step-son, Jeff Spence (Barb); and his twelve grandchildren who will miss their "Popsie": Rocky and Kyle Campbell, C.J. and Christina Fodrey, Elise and Maeve Morrow, Emme Muelhaupt, Jacqueline, Marley, and Josie Muelhaupt, Ben and Rachel Spence; his sisters Susan Overbey, Sarah Elliott (John), and Juliet Bliss; his brother John Paul (Karen); his sister-in-law, Elizabeth Hager (Dennis) and many nieces and nephews. Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, his step-son Jay Spence, and his brother Joe (Louise).

A Funeral Mass will take place at St. Augustin Catholic Church, 42nd Street and Grand Avenue, Des Moines at 11a.m. on Wednesday. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the Mass near the sanctuary and after the mass in the Parish Hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Augustin Foundation or the Downtown YMCA. Online condolences may be directed to www.mclarensresthavenchapel.com