The Life of WILLIAM J MUEHLENTHALER
William “Sam” Muehlenthaler, age 87, passed away Thursday, May 19, 2011, at Kavanagh Hospice House.
Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Tuesday, May 24, 2011, at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd at 3820 SW 9th Street, with burial to follow at Highland Memory Gardens. Visitation will be held Monday from 4–7 pm, at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens.
Born June 19, 1923, Sam was the son of William and Lena (Kauffman) Muehlenthaler of Slater, Iowa. He graduated from Alleman High School in 1942 before enlisting in the U.S. Navy.
On March 11, 1945, Sam was united in marriage to Bernice Hutchins. The couple farmed until 1956, before making their home in Des Moines. Sam then went to work for American Prosthetics for 31 years, retiring in 1986.
Sam was a member of the American Legion in Ankeny, and Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd. He enjoyed woodworking, watching both the St. Louis Cardinals and cardinal birds in his yard in which he took much pride. Most of all he loved spending time with his family.
Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Bernice; children, Diane Muehlenthaler, Dorine (Larry) Holle, and Chet (Sue) Muehlenthaler; grandchildren, Bret Holle, Amy Sweeney, Barb Kilker, and Scott Muehlenthaler; and six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother, Robert “Bub” Muehlenthaler; sisters, Rose “Sis” Williams, and Dorothy “Toots” Howard; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion in Ankeny or to Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, in loving memory of Sam.
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