Gary F. Mueller, 86, of Burlington, passed away Thursday, April 2, 2026, at Aurora Medical Center.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, on February 17, 1940, he was the son of William and Magdalene (nee Laslo) Mueller. On January 7, 1961, in Burlington, he was united in marriage to Virginia Mercer, his high school sweetheart. They have been married for over 65 years. He has been a lifelong Burlington resident.
Gary worked as a tool and die maker and was a part-owner of Badge Tool Works in Racine. He travelled around the country and raced radio-controlled sailboats, building his own special “speed secrets” into his hand-crafted vessels. He loved to foster the love of RC sailing with many younger sailors. He was also interested in aviation history and new developments in aviation.
Gary is survived by his wife, Virginia; children, Shannon (Scott) Olson and Stacey (Kevin) Martin; grandchildren, Aaron (Vanessa Brey) Olson, Taylor (Amber Mustoe) Olson, and Karleigh (Hunter Young) Olson; and brother, Ralph Mueller. He was preceded in death by his parents, son Matthew Mueller, and sister-in-law Jackie Mueller.
The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff of Aurora Memorial Hospital of Burlington and Aurora at Home Hospice for their care during this time.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family for the Gateway Foundation, Machinists & Mechanics Scholarship in honor of his son, Matthew.
Private services will be held at a later date.
Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home & Crematory
625 S. Browns Lake Drive
Burlington, WI 53105
(262) 763-3434
