Ruth A. Mueller, age 75, of Valparaiso passed away in her home on September 19, 2025. She was born October 5, 1949, in Reedsburg, Wisconsin to the late Rev. Martin and Marian (Sather) Mueller.  She was a retired educator and school administrator at River Forest School System. Ruth Mueller's public education career began in River Forest Community Schools where she taught P.E.

The majority of Ruth's career was spent impacting the lives of students, teachers and fellow leaders in the School City of Hammond. If ever a soul was fashioned with an abundance of integrity, intelligence, vision, compassion and love, Ruth Mueller was that person.  As principal at Caldwell Elementary School for some 7 years she began to prove herself a leader in teacher and student development.

In 1994 the Hammond Leadership Academy was created under her inspiration. The Leadership Academy served as the professional development hub of the district to elevate best practices and effective teaching and learning.  The impact of the Academy not only elevated classroom instruction – but also elevated administrative leadership.  Hammond once knew a substantive unity and collaboration; many will recall those treasured years.

Later Ruth assumed the position of Assistant to the Superintendent of Curriculum. The Leadership Academy was dissolved but the foundation she established informed her curriculum work.  Ruth's contributions to students, teachers, and leaders in the Hammond is incalculable.  Additionally, she became a highly regarded educational leader among consultants and other professional entities.

Until her retirement in 2010 she respected those she served and those whom she worked alongside.  Ruth Mueller's work ethic and dedication strengthened every realm of education where she led. She was a beacon of support, generosity and friendship and her legacy continues through the multitude of lives she touched.

Ruth was an active member of Augustana Lutheran Church, where she served faithfully with the food pantry and was a dedicated member of the bell choir. She loved to travel, read, and spend time at her cottage on Lake Shafer. She was a Green Bay Packers and Chicago Cubs Fan. Her love of family and faith were never ending. She was smart, caring, and understanding.

She is survived by two brothers, Paul (Diane) Mueller of Coleman, WI and David (significant other Chris) of Delevan, WI; her sister-in-law Sharon Mueller; her best friend and caregiver, Karen Horvatich; and by her nieces and nephews, Toby, Troy, Tammy, Matthew, Anne-Marie, Tim, Dan, Dylan, Drew, and Haley; and her Fur Babies, Bella and Ellie.

She was preceded in death by her father, Rev. Martin H. E. Mueller; her mother, Marian (Sather) Mueller; her brother, Martin H. E. Mueller.

Visitation will be from 9-11 am Friday September 26, 2025, at Augustana Lutheran Church 207 Kelly Street, Hobart, Indiana 46342.  Her funeral will follow immediately at 11 am at the Church. Ruth wished to be cremated.

In lieu of flowers Ruth wished that memorial gifts be shared with the Dunes Hospice at www.duneshospicellc.com, Augustana Lutheran Church 207 Kelly Street Hobart, IN 46342, or the Hobart Humane society at www.hshobart.org.

Rees Funeral Home 600 W. Old Ridge Road Hobart, Indiana was entrusted with arrangements.