Kale Ervin Mueller, a young man of boundless energy and infectious laughter, left this world much too soon, yet his eleven years were lived with the zest and joy that many strive for in a lifetime. Born on May 10, 2013, in Effingham, Illinois, Kale transformed every room he entered with his charisma and genuine warmth. On December 18, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family, Kale passed away at St. Louis Children’s Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
Kale, the beloved son of Ervin A. Mueller II and Brooke (Johnson) Mueller, was the spark in his family’s life. He was a brother who could turn any mundane day into an adventure, shared with Tanner Price and Kierra Mueller. His grandparents, Ron and Duckie Johnson, instilled in him the values of kindness and humor that he carried with him every day. His niece, Adelyn Price, along with his uncles, Craig Johnson, Drew Johnson, and John (Erin) Mueller, and several cousins, knew that time spent with Kale was never dull.
Kale was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ervin and Louise Mueller, infant sibling prior to birth and his uncle, Deron Johnson.
In the 6th grade at Stewardson-Strasburg School, Kale was the student who could always be counted on to lighten the mood. He had a knack for making learning fun for everyone around him. As a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Effingham, he was the light-hearted spirit that reminded everyone that faith could be joyful. His absence leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, church community, Stew-Stras communities and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Kale was the chap who never met a stranger, a “good” kid not just in his actions but in the joy he brought to others. His love for family and friends was rivaled only by his ability to torment the family dog, Ruby. With a simple joke always at the ready, he could turn a simple game of bags, cards or charades into a blockbuster comedy. His love for sports, whether it be watching the St. Louis Cardinals, playing baseball or basketball, was matched only by his passion for the great outdoors, where he loved to deer and squirrel hunt. Kale’s adventurous spirit was evident when camping or riding four-wheelers, and his creativity was on display when he was immersed in building Legos.
Visitation will be held from 3:00-7:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 22, 2024, at the Stew-Stras Junior High Gymnasium. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 23, 2024, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Effingham followed by interment in Stewardson Cemetery. Memorials in Kale’s honor may be given to St. John’s Lutheran LYF or WSS Sportsbackers and mailed to 302 W. Main St., Shelbyville, IL 62565. The family requests casual attire. Brummerstedt Funeral Home in Stewardson is assisting the family.
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