March 23, 2016   //   Firm News   //   By PKF Mueller Solutions

Share

Alfred E. Mueller / 1923 – 2016

Alfred “Al” E. Mueller founding partner of accounting firm Mueller & Co., LLP (now Mueller) passed away on March 19th peacefully at home. Mr. Mueller through his vision, leadership style, and skills has left a lasting legacy for firm employees, clients, the Elgin community, and beyond.

He served in the United States Army/Air Corps as a gunnery instructor from 1943 to 1946 and received his accounting degree from Northwestern School of Business. In 1968, Mueller founded Mueller & Co. LLP to serve the region’s growing base of small – to medium-sized businesses, local municipalities and not-for-profit organizations.

“In 1968 Al was at a crossroads in his career with the choice to join a large firm or to embark on an entrepreneurial journey and start his own firm.  His focus on making sure clients received personal attention vs. feeling like a “number” aided him in his decision,” said David J. Nissen, Mueller’s current Managing Partner who was a young CPA under Al in the mid-1980s.

Mueller’s civic and philanthropic endeavors earned him praise for his volunteering spirit and many contributions to the local community. He supported the USA Council of International Serra Club, Kiwanis, Catholic Charities, Catholic Diocese of Rockford, Fox Valley Mental Health, Tuberculosis Association of Kane County, St. Joseph Hospital, Knights of Columbus, St. Thomas More Parish, First National Bank, and United Way.

Al retired from Mueller in 1988 but continued to leave a lasting mark on the firm as it grew to become one of the top 20 accounting firms in Chicago. “We would not be the firm we are today if not for Al’s vision, determination, and entrepreneurship. Beyond firm longevity and size, Al’s strongest contribution was to our culture. He was a people person who was always interested in other’s stories and experiences. To him, employees were more family and friend and that culture exists here today.” said Nissen.

In retirement Al continued to take part in client appreciation events, employee events and company milestones. When the firm moved in 2012 to their present location in Elgin, Al was able to join the employees, share a few memories, and cut the ribbon recognizing Mueller’s move to a new location and new beginnings.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Anne, his seven children, and many grand and great grandchildren.