Obituary of John A. Muller
John A. Muller, 81, retired Police Chief in the Borough of South Plainfield, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 9, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Born in Manhattan, NY to the late John O. and Patricia (Mehok) Muller, John has been a lifelong resident of the borough.
Enlisting in the United States Navy in 1959, he proudly served as an Air Traffic Controlman aboard the USS Independence before being honorably discharged in 1965. Following his military service, John returned to his hometown where he began his career as a South Plainfield Police Officer. During his time on the force, he worked through the ranks, eventually retiring as Chief of Police in 1997.
Outside of work, John’s dedication to serve continued in his community where he was an active member of the South Plainfield B.P.O.E. Elks #2298 for 48 years. He served in many capacities including as an officer in numerous positions and as the Exalted Ruler. In 1988 he was bestowed as a life member. Additionally; John was a member of the South Plainfield American Legion, and Italian American Club.
John will also be remembered as a huge Elvis fan, having a love for golf and boating, as well as always rooting for the New York Giants and New York Rangers.
He is predeceased by his sister, Gail Razzano and son, William Muller. He is survived by his loving wife of twenty-four years, Barbara (nee Ferguson); daughters, Kimberly Hoff and husband Tom of South Plainfield; Jennifer Bird (nee Ocsack) and husband Larry of Chesterfield; daughter-in-law Deborah of Scottsdale, AZ, Kelly Alvarez of Mesquite, TX; Patricia Hye and wife Kim of Myrtle Beach, SC; and 8 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held at the McCriskin – Gustafson Home for Funerals, 2425 Plainfield Avenue, South Plainfield, NJ, on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 from 3-7 p.m. B.P.O.E Elks Service will be held at 6:15 followed by a Military Service. Following the service, the family invites all to attend a repast at the South Plainfield Elks Lodge
Cremation Services will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, the Muller family has requested donations be made to the Gery Fantazir and Rose Napoliello Memorial Scholarship Fund. Checks should be made out to South Plainfield Elks Lodge #2298 with Fantazir/Napoliello in the memo section and mailed to South Plainfield Elks Lodge #2298, 1254 New Market Avenue, South Plainfield, NJ 07080, Attention: Barbara Muller.