Joan Mueller, 88, of Columbus, Nebraska, died Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at her home after a commendable battle with pancreatic cancer.

The funeral service will be held on Monday, July 13, at 10:30 AM, at St. John's Lutheran Church Shell Creek, with Rev. Dr. Chris Alexander officiating. Visitation will be on Sunday, from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Gass Haney Funeral Home and continue Monday, from 9:30 AM until service time, at the church. There will be a family prayer service at 10:15 AM on Monday, at the church. Interment is in Roselawn Memorial Cemetery.

Joan F. Mueller was born on June 23, 1938, in Columbus, Nebraska, to Henry and Edna (Gerber) Blaser. She attended Duncan elementary and high school and later attended Wesleyan University in Lincoln, Nebraska.

On April 4, 1959, Joan married the love of her life, Merle Mueller, in Columbus. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, hard work, and love—a life she embraced wholeheartedly. Joan worked at Ben Franklin and the Schuyler Sun newspaper while also playing an essential role in the daily operation of the family farm, contributing in countless ways alongside Merle.

Joan’s faith was the foundation of her life, and she was a devoted member of St. John's Lutheran Church, where she faithfully served through Tabitha Circle, the Rejoice Choir, the Quilting Group for Missions, and the Altar Guild. Joan also found great joy in tending her large garden, sewing and mending clothes, preparing gourmet meals, playing cards, bowling, and spending treasured time with her family and friends.

More than any of her many talents or accomplishments, Joan took the greatest pride in caring for others before herself. She was the heart of her family, always placing the needs of her children, grandchildren, and loved ones above her own. Her generous spirit, servant's heart, and unwavering desire to make everyone feel loved, welcomed, and valued were evident in every aspect of her life. The love she shared, the values she instilled, and the example she set will continue to inspire and guide her family for generations to come.

Joan is survived by: 
Husband: Merle Mueller of Columbus, NE 
Son: Con (Marla) Mueller of Lincoln, NE 
Daughter: Deb (Randy) Headley of Lincoln, NE 
Daughter: Pam (Adam) Pieper of Richland, NE 
Eight grandchildren 
Eleven great grandchildren

Joan was preceded in death by: 
Parents: Henry & Edna Blaser 
Brother: Melvin Blaser 
Twin Sister: Jean (Reiny) Fergin