The South Bend community is reeling from the devastating loss of Joseph “Joey” Mueller, a beloved 4th grader whose vibrant spirit touched the lives of all who knew him. Joey tragically passed away on Saturday, March 23rd, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of joy, optimism, and boundless enthusiasm.
Joseph Mueller’s untimely departure was confirmed through a heart-wrenching post shared within the community, which read, “This Holy Week, as we ponder death and our salvation, I encourage my friends to consider this family in your charitable giving. Our SMC parish and school community is reeling after the tragic loss of a 4th grader this past week.” The exact circumstances surrounding Joey’s passing have not been disclosed.
Who was Joseph “Joey” Mueller? At just 11 years old, Joey Mueller possessed a radiant smile and an infectious zest for life that lit up every room he entered. His optimistic outlook and warm demeanor endeared him to all who had the privilege of crossing paths with him. Whether engaging in lively conversations with friends, tackling new challenges at school, or cherishing moments with his family, Joey’s cheerful presence never failed to uplift those around him.
One of Joey’s most remarkable qualities was his unwavering sense of optimism, which transcended his age and inspired all who knew him. He approached each day with a positive attitude and a determination to seize every opportunity, regardless of the obstacles he faced. A talented soccer player and aspiring artist, Joey pursued his passions with dedication and creativity, leaving a lasting impression on those who witnessed his endeavors on the field or in the realm of art.
Joseph “Joey” Mueller GoFundMe In the wake of Joey’s tragic accident, a GoFundMe campaign was launched by Renee Mueller to support his family with hospital, funeral expenses, and other needs. The fundraiser, initiated on Saturday, March 23rd, 2024, aimed to raise $10,000 to alleviate the financial burden on Joey’s family during this difficult time. As of the time of this report, $5,790 has been raised, thanks to the generosity of 72 individuals who were moved by Joey’s story.
An excerpt from the fundraiser shared Joey’s grandmother Renee Mueller’s heartbreaking account, stating, “Hello, my name is Renee Mueller, I am raising funds for my eleven year old grandson Joey’s family. Joey was found unresponsive from a traumatic accident and was placed on life support Tuesday, March 19, 2024. The doctors advised the family to remove Joey from life support and start end of life care on Saturday, March 23, 2024.”
The South Bend community mourns the loss of Joseph “Joey” Mueller, a bright young soul whose memory will forever be cherished. As they come together to support his family in their time of need, they honor Joey’s legacy of kindness, resilience, and unwavering optimism.
