Phillip Carter Mueller,  born May 28^th 1959 in Milwaukee Wisconsin, left this world suddenly, and unacceptably too soon, on February 29^th 2024.  He died of natural causes.

To know Phil was a true privilege. To know Phil was to feel his love and to be loved by him in return. The essence of Phil was vast; he was kind beyond belief, creative, compassionate, gracious, ingenious, intuitive, witty, intentional, humble, generous, thoughtful, and welcoming.

The Mueller family moved from Oconomowoc Wisconsin in 1967, when Phil was eight. As a young boy it was evident that he would later become a collector. He first collected butterflies, then coins, and so on through his life. He always had varied interests and pursued them with passion.

While attending Minnetonka High School, Phil developed a love for soccer and ceramics, and with determined practice, he excelled at both. He attended Gustavus Adolphus where he continued to play soccer and then studied abroad in France. It was in France that his interest in photography developed.  Commercial and freelance photography would later become his career.

Oil painting eventually became another way for Phil to create images of the world he so keenly observed.  He passionately pursued plein air painting. Phil found beauty and inspiration everywhere. His photos, paintings and ceramics all convey his remarkable talents.

Phil was a true Renaissance man.  He enjoyed tapping his maple trees to make syrup.  He milled his own lumber from trees on his property and then created furniture and other objects from the wood.  There were few things he couldn’t fix or figure out.  He enjoyed sitting in just the right spot between his stereo speakers to listen to music.

Phil had so much love for his family and friends. Devoted Husband of 30 years to Cathy (who is dearly missed). Remarkable father of Carter and Mardy. Eldest and wonderful son of Judy and Warren Mueller (who is dearly missed). Brother of Laurie (Rick Hiebert), Hans (Shelley Fredrickson), and Jennifer (Gene Stauber).  Supportive Uncle to Hayley (Kevin Kolstad), Charlie Stauber (Sam), Lauren Stauber and Alice Hiebert.  Great uncle to Juniper.  Phil also had deep appreciation for his friendship with Carla Scholz, his lifelong soccer buddies, and colleagues in the art world.

A celebration will be held in Phil’s honor at 1:00 p.m. May 11th at Gale Woods Farm, 7210 County Rd. 110 W, Minnetrista.