Orin L. Mueller

“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts.”

Orin L. Mueller, a cherished member of the Fond du Lac, WI community, was gently guided into paradise in his sleep December 28, 2024, at the age of 73 in Tucson, AZ.

Born on October 17, 1951, to Jeanette (Kirschenstein) and Clarence “Butch” Mueller in Fond du Lac, WI, Orin was the oldest of six children, a role he embraced with love and responsibility.

He graduated from Goodrich Sr. High School in 1969 and was proud to be the first in his family to attend college. Orin earned his degree in Education and Senior English from UW Oshkosh in 1974, after starting at UW Fond du Lac. He later obtained his Masters Degree in Education. He began his teaching career at Sabish Jr. High School and later taught at Goodrich Sr. High School and Fond du Lac High School until his retirement in 2008. Even after retirement, Orin continued to substitute teach in the Fond du Lac School District and other surrounding districts from 2010 to 2016. He loved what he did. To him it was not a JOB, but a passion.

In July 1976, Orin married Christine Sabel, with whom he had two children, Laura and Teddy. He was deeply proud of his children and supported them in all their endeavors. Even after their divorce they remained good friends. And supporters of their kids. In July 2001, he married Carol Christiansen, who preceded him in death in February 2019. Together, they enjoyed many trips and vacations together, particularly their cruises to Alaska and trips to Hawaii. They often had their Grandsons in tow as much as possible to teach them things on the road. They believed, as Dr. Seuss wrote, “Oh, the places you’ll go.”

Orin dedicated 38 years of his life to teaching for The Fond du Lac School District and inspiring countless students with his passion for education. He also served as a forensics coach and a board member with the Wisconsin Forensic Coaches’ Association, guiding his students to excel in their pursuits. His love for performing was evident in his participation in several productions with the Fond du Lac Community Theatre and various choirs throughout Fond du Lac County. He also volunteered at the Galloway House and Village, where he and Carol served as docents.

After Carol’s passing, in 2020 he moved to Tucson to be near to his Daughter Laura.

Orin is survived by his two beloved children, Laura (Steve) Coppedge and Teddy (Aurora) Mueller, his grandsons Calvin (Leslie Kopf) Schnieder and Roland Mueller, his bonus grand-daughters Alicia (Will Smith) Coppedge and Abi (Isaac Greenway) Coppedge, and his great-granddaughter Gigi. His siblings Joan (Mike Fritz) Kranig, Raymond (Kim) Mueller, Eugene Mueller, and brother-in-law John (Marilyn) Christiansen and their families. Many nieces and nephews. His first Wife Christine Sabel .

His dear friend & Chaplain Jodi McGinn of Tucson, AZ, who often assisted him up until the end and so many wonderful friends who became family to him over the years.

Orin was preceded in death by his parents, Jeanette and Clarence, his second wife Carol, two sisters Karen Rieder and Sharon Kreif, nephew Nicolas Rieder, and brother-in-law Joseph Rieder. And his Childhood Friend Daryl Morgan.

Cremation has taken place in Tucson.

Special Thanks to his caring caregivers, you hold a spceial place in our heart. The wonderful staff at TMC Hospice RN Brian and staff , and finally to Kellie, Jen and Shari Bayada Home health care. For Taking excellent care of Dad in the last year.

A Celebration of life full of color, music and laughter will be held September 20th, 2025, in Fond du Lac, WI, where friends and family will gather to celebrate Orin’s life and share their cherished memories. Details will be published closer to the date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Orin’s name to:

-Friends of Taylor Park & Pool, Inc. – PO Box 1211, Fond du Lac, WI 54936-1211

-Fond du Lac County Historical Society – PO Box 1284, Fond du Lac, WI 54936-1284

-FDL Chapter Project Linus (checks to PL ) c/o Penny Kollmansberger – 381 Linden St, Fond du Lac, WI 54935

Or a charity of your choice.

Orin will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

His unique sense of humor, kindness, wisdom, and gentle spirit will forever remain in our hearts.

Spend as much time with your family as you can, and as he would always say ” God Bless & love one another”.