Published by Legacy on Feb. 11, 2026.
Theodore "Ted" Andre Mueller, 94, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2026. Born on August 30, 1931, in
Sheboygan, Wisconsin, he was the beloved son of Marie (Van Griethuysen) and Rudie Mueller.
Ted married the love of his life, Beverly Chandler, on March 8, 1952, while completing his undergraduate degree and Masters at Northwestern University in Chicago. He then graduated from the Stonier Graduate School of Banking. Together they built a rich and joyful life. Ted and Bev celebrated an extraordinary 73 years of marriage, a testament to their enduring devotion.
Ted enjoyed a long and successful career in banking, retiring in 1986 as Senior Vice President. After retirement, Ted and Bev moved to Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, where they spent many wonderful years enjoying the beauty of the lake, the company of good friends, and countless family visits.
Later in life, Ted and Bev returned to Wisconsin, settling in Elkhart Lake, close to the area where they had both been born and raised. There, they again found deep joy in welcoming family, reconnecting with their roots, and staying close to the places tied to their ancestors. In his later years, they moved to the Chicago area to be close to their daughter Mindy and her husband Tom and granddaughter Alicia and family. It was both an honor and a privilege for them to care for him, and they are forever grateful for the time they had together. In addition, he received loving care and treasured calls and visits from out of state family. The family is also sincerely thankful for the support and compassion shown by the staff at Cordia Senior Residence, along with Suncrest Hospice.
Throughout their life together, Ted and Bev were deeply involved in every community they called home. Ted served as President of the Economic Council in Rock Island, Illinois, President of the Rock Island Chamber of Commerce, was a committed member of Kiwanis, and devoted significant time to the Lions Club, among many other accomplishments.
A true renaissance man, Ted loved gardening. He was an accomplished artist and model builder, and his beautiful artwork remains a cherished legacy. He enjoyed a lifelong love of art and even illustrated a children's book, "Once White, Now Bright: How the Birds Received Their Colors," at the age of 82. He loved opera, delighted in cheering for the Green Bay Packers, and could always be found working on a project-either at his own home or helping his children with theirs. His creativity, curiosity, and willingness to lend a hand were constants throughout his life.
Ted is survived by his wife, Bev; by his children, Jean Tamburello (Ray) of Spring Hill, TN; Bob (Dawn) of Northville, MI; and Mindy Moore (Tom) of Lombard, IL.; and by his beloved grandchildren-Christina, James, Michael, Marc, Lisa, Ryan, Alicia, Shannon, and Riley-as well as his great-grandchildren-Lily, Fiona, Elise, Fletcher, Teddy, Max, Libby, Owen, Avery, Cadence, Charlie, Matthew, Spencer, Grace and Hope.
He was preceded in death by his sister Lois, his brother Lloyd, and two precious great-grandchildren, Andrew and Christine, twin siblings who now welcome him home.
His memory will live on in the hearts of all, as he now rests in God's care.
Following cremation, a private family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
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