Gerald E. "Jerry" Muller, 80, of Washington, passed away peacefully Sunday, September 24, 2023 at the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria.

He was born April 17, 1943 in Peoria to Gilbert and Clara (Thomas) Muller.  He was married to Judith Ann Clark in April 1974.  Judith preceded him in death on February 13, 1991.  He was also preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers, George and Wayne Muller. Surviving are three children, Jo (Robert) Muller-Krause, Joshua Muller, Jeriann Muller; three grandchildren, Bailey, Jenna and Chase Muller; and one great-great-granddaughter, Aubree Muller-Watson.

Jerry grew up dairy farming in Washington, and loved his Holstein cows. He was a member of dairy judging teams in 4-H and FFA, and won many awards for his ability to recognize the best of the best in dairy breeds. He participated and won awards at "Black and White" Holstein breed shows, locally as well as at county and state level. The Muller farm herd name prefix "Gilberson" was well known among Holstein breeders.

He worked as a rural route mail carrier in Washington for 33 years and then as a laboratory courier at OSF Laboratory for 17 years before retiring in 2020. He was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church. Jerry was a dedicated Cubs fan and was active in coaching and supporting youth sports.  One of his greatest passions was gardening, and he loved all dogs and cats.  He will be dearly missed by all who were blessed to have known him.

Cremation has been accorded.  A memorial service will be held at Noon on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington.  The family will receive visitors two hours before the service from 10am to Noon at the funeral home.  Private inurnment will be at Hillcrest Memory Gardens in Morton.

The family would like to send a special thank you to all involved in his care at Illini Transport, OSF St. Francis Medical Center, and Villas of Hollybrook Washington.  Our deepest gratitude to all individuals at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home for the truly dedicated and loving care provided to Jerry and his family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to TAPS No-Kill Animal Shelter in Pekin, or to the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home.