Frederick H. Mueller


Frederick Henry Mueller was a U.S. cabinet officer. He served as the United States Secretary of Commerce from 1959 until 1961, during the administration of President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Early life

Mueller was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the son of Emma Matilde Oesterle and furniture manufacturer John Frederick Mueller.

Education

He graduated from Michigan State University in 1914, with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering.

Career

Upon his father's retirement, he became president of the family business.
Prior to joining the Eisenhower administration, Mueller served in multiple posts at the Department of Commerce. In 1956, Mueller was charged with the heading of the Division of Domestic Affairs as Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Domestic Affairs until 1958 when he was elevated to Undersecretary of Commerce. He held this position until he was elevated to Secretary of Commerce in 1959.

Personal life

He married the former Mary Darrah on November 6, 1915; they had two children, Marcia Joan and Frederick Eugene Mueller.

Death

Mueller died in Sarasota, Florida, on August 31, 1976, at age 82. He is interred in Graceland Mausoleum in Grand Rapids, Michigan.