Karl Mueller Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.
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MB
October 23, 2012
I love you
Jennifer
October 23, 2005
Mary Beth, I am so sorry for your loss. Karl was a great musician and many of us will enjoy his music for a long time. May God bless you.
Marily
August 23, 2005
I'm very sad about the Karl loss. It's hard to accep. I've never had the opportunity to meet him and see the band play live once in my life was my biggest dream.I grew up with their fantastic music.Condolances to you dear Mary Beth, Mary, Dave, Daniel,relatives and friends.I never forget him!
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Jim Leatherman
July 17, 2005
I Was So Sad To Hear The News Of Karl's Passing. I Have Been The Biggest Fan Of The Soulies Since Seeing Them Play In Florida On Tour Supporting "Made To Be Broken". I Must Have Seen Them At Least 20 Times Over The Years. By Far My Favorite Live Band Of All Time ! I Wish Karl's Family And The Surviving Brothers Of Soul Asylum Well And My Sincere Condolences. Keep Making Beautiful Music. Rest In Peace Karl.
sasa papac
July 2, 2005
I have been listening music of Soul Asylum for ten years. Two weeks ago I received terror news. Karl Mueller was a great musician. I'm walking days and days streets of Zagreb and I'm looking in the sky and I ask God: Is it true? No, I think that was only an ugly dream. I couldn't help admiring Karl's play.
God blessing Karl Mueller in the heaven!
Sasa PAPAC, Croatia
Jay Corrao
July 1, 2005
Karl and I attended Marshall University Highschool together. He was a quiet type but he always treated me with kindness and respect. It was not until many years later that I knew he had made it to the big time and I couldn't help but think good for you Karl.
michael & kristi stratton
June 24, 2005
dear, marybeth & the whole Soul Asylum clan...our sympathies run deep regarding the passing of Karl. We always thought it was so cool to have someone in one of our favorite bands living down the street. We only have a daily reprieve in this life and what a life Karl lived...inaugural balls, david letterman, and venues all across this land. The thing we will remember the most is just a simple wave and hello from Karl walking his dogs around the block.
marybeth, if there is ANYTHING we can help you with please feel free to call. You are in our thoughts and prayers. mike, kristi, grace, lyla and the dogs...
John Dehais
June 24, 2005
My deepest condolences to Mary Beth, Dave, Danny, and all who knew and will miss him.
Christopher Winter
June 23, 2005
Jeff and I mourn... The good die young... the mediocre... ?
The great... Heres to ya !!!
Colin Murphy
June 23, 2005
Just another person who was touched by Karl and his friends and their music. I was so sorry to hear of all of your loss...God Bless the entire Mueller/Soul Asylum family and their friends.
JASON PORTINGA
June 23, 2005
SO MANY WORDS, SO LITTLE SPACE. THANK YOU FOR MAKING A ROUGH WORLD JUST A LITTLE MORE BAREABLE AND FOR ALL THE SMILES YOU BROUGHT TO MY FACE. PLEASENT JOURNIES MY FRIEND
Scott Keating
June 23, 2005
My deepest sympathy to the Mueller Family, the members of Soul Asylum & the general music community of Mineapolis. I listened to SA since I was 16 & they were truly a band I grew up with. Karl's funeral was on the same day as my birthday. I offered up my birthday wishes to Karl, his family, his band, & his city.
Mess F
June 22, 2005
My deepest sympathies to those who knew and loved Karl.
Gordon Hendrickson
June 22, 2005
Marybeth you will always be my favorite older sister. If there were words that could help you through this incredibly difficult time I'd write you a whole novel. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Hope to see you soon
Love, Gordon and the whole Hendrickson clan.
mary quinn
June 22, 2005
During all the years I came and went from Minneapolis, Soul Asylum was the music I would listen to when I was a little lonesome or homesick, or just wanted to remember what it felt like to be surrounded by good friends and good times. Thanks for providing a good portion of the soundtrack to growing up here in the times that we did, Karl. Thanks for being a good man. You will be missed by many, and my heart goes out to you, Mary Beth, and all those in the extended family of friends. I'll keep you all in my thoughts. Sending love,
Adam Lazlo Rutkowski
June 22, 2005
Karl is a wonderful person. My heart goes out to his family and friends. He will be missed.
kim orne
June 22, 2005
very sad to hear the news about karl. just listening to the bass line opening of "promises broken". what a beautiful thing to leave behind. many condolences to friends and family. love and prayers from austin, texas.
Chris, Vickie, Sara, and Nina
June 22, 2005
Mary Beth, our deepest sympathies for your great loss.
Karl was truly a down-to-earth kind of a guy and he will be significantly missed on stage and in life. We had the opportunity to meet Karl on several occasions and we feel lucky to have known him.
We also send our condolences to Dan, Dave, Bill, Karl's mother and all of the Minneapolis musicians and friends who loved him.
Kathy M
June 22, 2005
Sadly for us, a new member joins the band in rock and roll heaven. Condolences to those left here to mourn the passing of Karl.
mary b johnson
June 22, 2005
Mary Beth, there really are no words that can take away the pain & loss you are feeling, though every word that is spoken or written is genuine. I have no doubt that Katie O was among those there at the Pearly Gates to greet Karl.
My deepest sympathies to you, Mrs. Mueller and the musical family that cherished him so.
Shelly Dewberry
June 22, 2005
Oh Mary Beth,
I was so sad to hear the news. Karl was such a sweet, gentle soul. Jerry and I send our love and prayers to you. Please let us know if we can help in ANY way. He will be missed...
Love
Shelly
tracy dimond
June 22, 2005
I met Karl when he worked at the Lunds in Uptown, He would always make my day, We went to a movie together and had a good time.
I am stunned to hear he had passed, so sorry to loose a truly wonderful person, i liked what another person has said, that now he is closer to the stars, and will be in our hearts always. My heart goes out to his family.
Stephanie Guzman
June 22, 2005
MaryBeth,
I am so extremely saddened by your loss. I was so hopeful that Karl would make a strong comeback. My most sincere sympathy to you and your family and friends. I will say a prayer for Karl, and for you. I know that you are one tough cookie, and I wish you all the strength in the world to make it through this trying time. You were a pleasure to work with at the Grill, and I never got to thank you for being there for me when I lost my grandfather and cousin. So, it is only right that I return the favor. If you need anything, please feel free to contact me, even if you just need a visitor to talk. Be strong, though your heart is broken, I promise the sun will shine once again, and Karl is closer to you now more than ever.
With Love and Friendship,
Stephanie Guzman
St. Paul, MN
Beth
June 22, 2005
Karl will forever be in my heart as one of the finest people I have had the pleasure of meeting.
Chris
June 22, 2005
To the sky we look for peace, from the sky the peace is given. In Heaven you rest. God Bless
paul metsa
June 21, 2005
Karl Mueller was the closest thing to James Dean that Minneapolis will ever have. RIP brother, Paul Metsa, Minneapolis
Hannah Lynch (nee Yager)
June 21, 2005
Mary Beth, it's been forever since I've seen you, but I am thinking so much of you right now and wanted to send you my sincerest sympathies. I was crushed to hear the news about Karl and flooded with sweet memories from those first few summers after I moved to Minneapolis. I know you've got quite a support system, but if I can do anything at all to help you in the next few weeks/months/years, please don't hesitate to call. Chrissie has my phone number and my e-mail is listed here. I wish you strength and peace right now, wherever you can find it. ---Hannah
Sean Sauder
June 21, 2005
I used to see Karl around town quite frequently, and not just at Soul Asylum shows (of which I've seen many) - saw him countless times at other shows and even working at Gluek's.
Even though I didn't know him personally and had never met him, there was just something about him that made me think that he was one of the good guys.
I am so glad I made it to the show that the 400 Bar had for him and the Rock For Karl benefit at The Quest last fall. They were great shows, and seeing him up there playing, I never thought that the day would come so soon when he wouldn't be.
My condolences to all of his family and friends.
John Chamberlain
June 21, 2005
Love the music and I love u
Mickey Locke
June 21, 2005
My heart cries for you at this loss of your loved one. May God bless and give you peace in this sad time.
April Fox and Jackey Bradbury
June 21, 2005
We send our deepest sympathies to Mary Beth, Mrs. Mueller, Dave, Dan and Bill, and everyone else who had the privilege of knowing and loving Karl. Although we didn't know him personally, his music touched us deeply. Our children have been sung to sleep to the tune of "I Did My Best" and moshed around the living room to "Religiavision." We feel as if we have lost a close friend and hope that knowing that he and his music touched so many lives, will help you through your grief.
Shirley Stone
June 21, 2005
Karl Mueller was a great man... he will truly be missed all through out the world. He and his music touch many people and our thoughts and prayers are with the family, both blood and band. God bless you all!
dan whyte
June 21, 2005
I am extremeley saddened by the loss of a man who provided the path to happiness to so many. I can't tell you what a blast it was to keep up with the guys in the "lean years", they seemed to always be playing in whatever town I travelled to. They made me proud to be a midwesterner, and was honored to eat from "that" very bowl of clam dip. I will always remember the great times of the cookouts, then shows, then aftermaths til sunrise. And I've always wondered who ended up with the Texaco fur hat from Winnipeg. Thanks, Karl for the great times and my condolences to all the so many who loved you.
Stephen Montana
June 21, 2005
Dear Mrs. Mueller, family, friends, Soul Asylum and fans,
I am truely sorry for this untimely loss.
What more to say. Time will heal.
You are all in my prayers.
Steve Montana
John K
June 21, 2005
Even across the ocean, Karl's music touched people. I've been a Soul Asylum fan for years, managing to catch a gig in 2003 whilst travelling. I'll never forget it. Rock on and rock out.
Tanya Moldenhauer
June 20, 2005
Mary Beth, I'm so sorry for your loss. Karl was a wonderful, brilliant soul who touched many people's lives and his presence here on Earth will be missed by so many. The days and months ahead will be difficult, but I hope you find some comfort in the wonderful memories the two of you have shared together.
My deepest condolences go out to you, Danny, Dave, Bill and Karl's mother Mary.
Rest in peace Karl.
Berni
June 20, 2005
I believe there is a special place in heaven for musicians. Karl is there now, bringing that bass section up to speed.
Scott John
June 20, 2005
Mrs. Mueller, Mary, and the Band of Brothers please accept my heart felt sympathy on the loss of Karl. I have been a fan of the band since '82. I have casually meet Karl many times at shows, the record store and walking his dogs. I have always enjoyed talking to him about music. His spirt stood out in the barrooms of lost souls. He was friendly but always humble. His music has greatly enriched my life if not saved it. Please continue on with his, yours, our music.
A fan and friend
Scott John
Chris Peters
June 20, 2005
Thank you Karl. Your music and the band Soul Asylum have had a profound impact on my life. Seldom a day goes by without one of the bands songs playing in my head. My heart goes out to your family and friends. May your music play on forever.
Joel Brooks
June 20, 2005
The anchor to one of the best unknown bands of their day!
Karl may you rest in peace and find your place beyond the clouds!
Rock on.....
Derek Gabrys
June 20, 2005
When I saw a blurb on yahoo news about Soul Asylum, I was hoping it was going to be news of a tour or a new album. Sadly, it was regarding the death of a member of one of my favorite and most underrated bands in rock n roll history. Karl, I didn't know you personally, but I was in the front row on your side of the stage when you guys played Summerfest in Milwaukee. It was one of the most memorable shows of my whole life. I saw you guys live every chance I got, and though I didn't learn about your death until today, I was listening to Let Your Dim Light Shine just this past weekend. Grave Dancers Union is one of the top 100 albums ever made! Hope you knew that. Thanks for the great music and memories.
Mike Hendrix
June 20, 2005
What can anyone really say when we lose a loved one. Karl's on to a better place and we will miss him. I will pray for his family and friends. Thanks for all the great shows!! You WILL be missed!
*Peace and Love*
Amy Silvers
June 20, 2005
Mary Beth, I'm heartbroken at the bad news. Even though I haven't seen you guys in years, I will always count you as friends, and I'll miss Karl terribly. My thoughts and prayers and wishes for strength and comfort are with you.
--Amy, formerly known as Amy from Twin/Tone
Garwin Redman
June 20, 2005
Not just to be awake but to be free, this is the authentic moment, a connectivity with all that was, will and can be.....that is awareness.
Memory, prophesy and fantasy....
The past, the future and this dreaming moment between......
Are all in one country.
Living one immortal day.
To know this is Wisdom.
To Live it, the Art.
Cray McCally
June 20, 2005
Mary Beth - I'm so sorry to hear about Karl's passing. I was so hopeful after seeing you at the U of M last month. Thanks to the both of you for the opportunity you gave me at Dixie's, it has opened up many doors for me and I am most grateful. Karl was a great musician but an even better man! I'll miss his sense of humor and the great music that he provided us with but will have many great memories of him at the Loon, Bullwinkle's when he'd come in before DJing with Lori at the 400 and back to the Prince Street Bar. Stay strong during this time of mourning and celebrate Karl's being closer to the stars. Much love and friendship,Pygmy
bill eddins
June 20, 2005
Dearest Mary Beth,
Driving down the street today and I was shocked to hear of Karl. I am deeply saddened, and I remember many a great night sitting @ the bar of Hoyt's discussing music and the world. My two boys and I shall light a candle in his memory tonight, and the thoughts of my whole family go to you.
Peace forever,
Stefanie
June 20, 2005
As a long time fan of the band, all I can say is that I am sorry, Karl and his music will be missed by many. Even greater condolences to his friends and family.
D. Taylor
June 20, 2005
I have always loved the sound of their music. It was sad to read about the passing of Karl. God bless the family and the band.
Annie Miners
June 20, 2005
Mary Beth, I just received word down here in the bahamas and my heart is aching that i can't be there for the service. Karl will be so missed by everyone who knew him. Stay strong honey. I love you both.
Sharon Parsons
June 20, 2005
I'm so sorry to hear of Karl's passing. Soul Asylum have been one of my favourite bands for many years. The Runaway Train video featured a girl from my town who had gone missing, we will always be grateful for her inclusion in the video. My sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Graham Brannon
June 20, 2005
sorry to hear this news. I would like to thank him for all the great music it has inspired me everyday sence I firt heard the songs 13 years ago
Tony Wagner
June 20, 2005
Mary Beth,
I was just thinking of you and Karl the other day. I am sorry for your loss. Though I have not seen you in several years now (Gear Daddies days) I fondly remember the weeknight card games at your house. There was no better way to spend an evening than losing money to my friends, admiring Karls snowdome collection, and laughing about life on the road. Take care, you are in our thoughts and prayers always.
Steve Peterson
June 20, 2005
Mary Beth,
I was so saddened to hear the news about Karl. Each time you have come to the Kowalski Deli lately you appeared to be so very strong, but I sensed a little more mellow than usual. I had no idea what you were going thru. My heart goes out to you and all those that loved Karl so very much. I know exactly what you are going thru and I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. All of the Lyons Pub people, including yourself helped me thru some very tough times and I have always appreciated it. My sincere condolences to you all.
Your Deli buddy,
Steve
Brett Lange
June 20, 2005
I did not know Karl in person, but when my wife told me of his passing I had to stop and think about the last time we saw him play...The "Rock for Karl" event was a classic. To see all of his friends on stage that night in support of Karl and his family was truly humbling and special. That kind of friendship must be a wonderful thing for the soul. He lived in our southwest Minneapolis community and will be missed. His spirit will live on with family, friends and fans.
Steve Henry
June 20, 2005
Condolences to all Karl's family and friends. I've been a fan of the band for many years. I met Karl 2 or 3 times over the years at shows, and he was always cool- just a regular guy.
Sorry for your loss.
Julie Lyons
June 20, 2005
I was never fortunate enough to meet Karl - but there were countless times that I did get to see him perform. I did get to see the show at the Quest last October - a performance I shall never forget. He always reminded me of that "non rock star" type. Thank you, Mary Beth and Mary for sharing him with the rest of us. My condolences to you and your family - and as others have said - he will live on through his music.
Mary Beth Goulett
June 19, 2005
Mary Beth,
I have such fun memories of Karl,Danny,Lizz and I playing 'Bob and Mary'at our rental on Ridgewood
Karl loved my little dog 'small-nerved wracked Bill'. He is such a gentle soul and he is hanging around all of us now still being Karl.
Love Mary Beth G.
Megan Bartell
June 19, 2005
Mary Beth,
I am so sorry to hear of Karl's passing. He was so kind and seemed to have a gentle soul. The handful of conversations we had, we were both regular people, talking about the garden. You'd never know he was in a rock band, or had anything else on his mind but the garden. We need more people like him. Peace and strength to you, Dave, Dan, your friends, and Karl's mom.
Michelle Mehrer
June 19, 2005
I was so sad to hear about Karl. I grew up listening to Soul Asylum and have seen them countless times. My condolences to his family and friends. He will live on in his music.
Megan Bacigalupo
June 19, 2005
Mary Beth,
I was sad to read the news about your beloved husband Karl. I have been thinking about you constantly and I wanted you to know you are in my thoughts and prayers. You have amazing support from your friends, family and community. I send my condolences to all of Karl's friend's and family as well.
Christopher Stratton
June 19, 2005
Mary Beth, I'm so sorry to hear the news that Karl has died.
I knew Karl Mueller as an extremely kind, sincere, dignified and all around cool guy, one who never let any realm of professional fame go to his head. He will be missed.
Marc Metz
June 19, 2005
As a fan I will always be thankful for the music. My prayers and thoughts go out to his wife and family. I saw SA play 4times and got to meet Karl before a 1987 show at some club that used to be a masonic temple. A friend and I were there early and Dave and Dan were discussing the song list, and Karl spotted us just standing there with sort of an awed look on our faces.He invited us to have a beer of theirs and so we did. We talked a few minutes with all the guys and just genuinely felt welcomed. I'll never forget that. Thank you Karl.
Tambre Bergstrom Markfort
June 19, 2005
Karl and I were good friends during my first year of college in 1981 at the U of M, where we took Swedish together. I'll never forget when I met him that year, dressed in a black leather jacket, big black boots and a mohawk...I was more than a little intimidated! But I was quickly drawn to his warmth, his humor and his passion for his music. Karl's band, Loud Fast Rules, was playing at the 7th Street Entry one weekend and he talked me into coming down to see him play. It was so much fun to watch him doing something that he loved so much. Not surprising, it wasn't long before Karl and the guys took that band to the next level. As I watched his success through the years, I can say that it was so neat to see that Karl's dreams came true. My thoughts go out to Karl's family at this time. He was truly one of "the good guys" and his loss will be felt.
Dr. Michael Chinnaswamy
June 19, 2005
This band has been part of my life since my "Mpls cool" big brother gave me beaten up tape when I was in 6th grade ('86), back in Madison. To be honest, I chose college in Mpls so I could try to get to more shows. I don't think this band has "superfans" but they are genuinely loved by their people. Let those "perfect memories" of Mr. Karl Mueller eyes closed, head bobbing, feeling that bass be a comfort and solace. Its a time to be thankful. Thank God for Karl Mueller, for creating and sharing the music that is so much a part of my life and many others. The Basilica to DoubleDoor, it's not enough to say, "we were entertained." Soul Asylum is "the band" that meant something more. They are part of our family and they made us feel like that was "just dandy." A heartfelt farewell to a well grounded musician, and an equal measure of graditude for all that Karl, Dave and Danny sacrificed to keep it up for the kids counting on them.
Love from India,
Jim Smith
June 19, 2005
God's speed brother...good things are ahead and great things are left to us forever. Thanks for sharing.
J. Azahel Carmona
June 18, 2005
R.I.P. KARL MUELLER
pat hutton
June 18, 2005
There are no words that make things better. But I hope Karl's family and friends can feel all the warmth and love being sent in their direction. Know that you and Karl are in my thoughts and prayers. It's too little to repay the gift you gave us all.
Gail Fountain
June 18, 2005
My prayers and best wishes go to Karl's family and friends. Karl was an excellent man and a very talented musician. I will miss him tremendously. I know he wants to be in a band when he gets to heaven (paraphrase, "Anyone Can Play Guitar," Radiohead). But here on earth, many of us will miss him.
Sónia Carvalho
June 18, 2005
Condolences and prayers to Karl's family and friends.
Jeffrey March
June 18, 2005
Karl always had time to meet the fans, have a drink, sign an autograph. Even at the very tail-end of the evening. Music has lost an ambassador. The world has lost another kind heart. You will be remembered.
Mark Vollrath
June 18, 2005
Karl was not just a musician in a band I liked, he was in every essence of the word, a HERO of mine. I have seen Soul Asylum at least twice every year since I was 15, I'm 25 this year. Ten years of backstage meetings, summer gigs in the sun, the little bar shows, and the big venue shows back in the 90's. Ten years and this will be the year that marks the end of seeing Karl on that stage. He will be in my thoughts for quite some time, a guy like Karl can't leave you that quickly. Although I have only met him a few times where we had a chance to exchange some words, I instantly knew that Karl was genuine. When he spoke at the benefit in his honor last year, tears came to my eyes. He chugged out those bass lines like he always did, never missing a beat. We will miss you always, Karl. Minneapolis will miss you, and fans all over the world will miss you. His friends and family are in my thoughts.
Sarah Monahan
June 18, 2005
My condolences, thoughts, and prayers go out to Karl's family and friends.
Thanks for the years of great music, Karl!
Pat Burton
June 17, 2005
May you rest in peace, knowing that you will always live on through all the great music. God bless you and your family and loved ones. You will not be forgotten. Peace, Pat
Scott McPeek
June 17, 2005
Thank you Karl, for the wonderful gift of music that you gave to us all. You will be greatly missed. My prayers go out to the entire Mueller family.
Philip Garcia
June 17, 2005
I don't know what to say here... Karl, you will be missed by everyone. I've loved Soul Asylum for years, and I'm so glad that I had gotten the chance to meet you a couple of times. You were always a great guy, and I thank you for everything. May your music forever live on.
Jenifer Kramer
June 17, 2005
My heart and prayers go out to Karl's family and friends. I have had the pleasure of seeing Soul Asylum perform many times and have met Karl a few times too. One of my favorite memories of Karl was when he was signing a Soul Asylum ticket for me he looked at the ticket and exclaimed, "Fifteen dollars! What a rip off!" I thought fifteen dollars was actually quite a good deal, especially since I was used to paying much more for other artists and it just shows how he had humility and didn't see himself as a big rock star.
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