Peter Eugene Mueller, 76, of McFarland, WI, passed away on September 2, 2023. Born in Monroe, WI, on July 1, 1947, he was the son of Edward and Anne (Stansel) Mueller. Pete attended Monroe High School and graduated in the class of 1965. After graduation, he studied pre-optometry at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and played on the Whitewater tennis team. He later received his Doctorate of Optometry from Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tennessee, where he was a member of the Omega Delta fraternity. In March of 1971, he married Vickie Wheeler in Memphis, Tennessee. After graduation, they moved back to Monroe, WI, where he joined his father's optometric practice, becoming his family's third generation to do so.
While in Monroe, Pete was active in several organizations, including the Jaycees, Optimistic Club, United Way, and the Model Railroad Club. He also served on the library board, Monroe school board, and church council of St. John's United Church of Christ. Sports were always an important part of Pete's life. An avid tennis player, he competed locally and throughout the region, eventually attaining a number one ranking in Wisconsin in his age bracket. He also loved golf, winning the Monroe Club championship twice, and could often be found on a course in retirement.
After practicing for 34 years in Monroe, he and his wife semi-retired to Townsend, Tennessee, where he practiced part-time in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. Fly fishing, golf, and woodworking became his favorite hobbies. He also enjoyed volunteering at the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center in Townsend and the Townsend Artisan Guild. As his health declined, they moved back to Wisconsin, settling in McFarland to be closer to family.
He was predeceased by his parents and son Mark Mueller. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, son Scott (Libby) Mueller of McFarland, WI, son Nick (Angela) Mueller of Troy, IL, and grandchildren Kendra and Dane of McFarland—also, brother Paul Mueller and nephew Michael Mueller of Edina, Minnesota.
Services will be on Sunday, September 10, at 3:00 p.m. at St. John's United Church of Christ in Monroe. A private family burial will be held Monday morning in Greenwood Cemetery. There will be a reception immediately following the service. Shriner Hager Gohlke is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent to the family at: shriner111.com.
