Justin Colby Mueller

JUSTIN COLBY MUELLER, age 40, of Waseca, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2025 at his home.

Born October 31, 1984, in Mankato to Gary Mueller and Jenn Philips-Schoknecht. Justin lived a life filled with passion, purpose, and a deep love for his family and friends.

Justin’s early years were spent in Janesville, where he developed a strong work ethic, starting with milking cows during high school. This dedication followed him into his adult life, where he built a successful career spanning 20+ years as a railroad engineer and conductor, first with Union Pacific where he had the opportunity to work with his uncle and godfather Roger Mueller, then Dakota Minnesota & Eastern which is now owned by Canadian Pacific. He took immense pride in his work, often recounting his daily journeys and things he saw as he stared out the window of the train. He enjoyed servicing the industries and would take any job where he could come home daily. He also held positions with SMART-TD Local 64 since 2015.

Beyond his professional life, Justin found joy in the simple things. He was a provider to his wife Julie (Krebs), who he shared many of his hobbies with. His loyal companions, his dogs, held a place of utmost importance in his heart. He was a patient and devoted caregiver, cherishing their unwavering loyalty. His other passions included hunting, spending time outdoors, tending to his food plots, and perfecting the placement of his deer stand. The quiet solitude of the sunrise and sunset while in the deer stand were moments, he especially treasured. He found satisfaction in target practice and the thrill of a successful hunt. He was also a dedicated Chevy fan, finding excitement in watching NASCAR races. His love for trains extended beyond his profession, encompassing a deep interest in their history. His garage was a testament to his hardworking nature; he was always tinkering, creating, and improving, even when nothing needed fixing.

Justin’s life was not without its challenges. He lived life on his own terms, often forging his own path, but always with a loving and caring heart. Though his path was occasionally marked by missteps, his kindness and devotion to those he cared for shone brightly. He will be remembered for his unwavering loyalty to his dogs, his outspoken opinions, and his steadfast commitment to family and friends. Justin will be dearly missed by those he leaves behind. His wife, Julie (Krebs) Mueller of Waseca; mother, Jenn (Joe) Philips-Schoknecht of Le Center; sister, Sarah Mueller of Gaylord; father-in-law, Steve Krebs (Becky Christensen) of Sleepy Eye; brothers-in-law, Josh (Kasey) Krebs and their children Payton, Ralyn, Sully of Sleepy Eye; Joe Krebs (Medford); aunts and uncles, Roger (Mary) Mueller of Mankato, Gene (Carolyn) Mueller of Sioux Falls, Susan (Dennis) of Fargo, and Peggy Mueller of NYA; numerous cousins, and friends. He is now reunited with those who preceded him in death, his father, Gary Mueller; grandmother, Lucille Mueller; mother-in-law, Mary Krebs; and aunt, Joann Yokiel.

A small service of remembrance will be held Saturday January 25 at 1:00 PM in Waseca, at the State Street Chapel of Dennis-Steffel-Omtvedt Funeral and Cremation Service. Visitation will continue following the service from 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM, at the funeral home.