Sigma Alpha Epsilon - University of Illinois

illinois beta chapter BROTHERS GATHER TO CELEBRATE THE LIFE OF JASON MUELLER '00 Even 10 Years After His Passing, He Still Can Make His Brothers Smile T en years after the tragic passing of our brother, Jason Mueller '00, his friends and brothers were inspired to get together and celebrate his life. The event was organized by Brett Conradt '01 and the "rabble-rousing" to get people to attend was done by Justin Harmon '00. Being that this year would have Jason's 40th birthday, they wanted to make it feel like a party. The event consisted of brothers who traveled locally and from across the country. It began with a barbecue at Brett's home with yard games and some beers. They then headed to the city for a group bar crawl. During the festivities, brothers caught up with each other about what is going on in their lives, but they mainly discussed old stories and what they remembered about Jason. "It was like stepping back in time," Justin said. In reminiscing about Jason, they remembered that he was always smiling, everybody's friend, and was popular with the women on campus. His nickname was "snuggles," because he was always curled up with a girl at the chapter house. While he may not have been the most fond of the name, he ended up embracing it. Jason was into techno and dance music. He was also a big baseball and Chicago Cubs fan, and he played in the top recreation league in Chicago. In another life, he would have been a centerfielder in the MLB. Utilizing his marketing degree from the University of Illinois and his MBA from DePaul, he went on to start and manage a pizzeria with another pledge brother in Lincoln Park. A GoFundMe page was also started in Jason's name to help support his nieces and nephews. So far, around $12,000 has been raised. Ryan Gattari '21 and Billy Almond '20 before the barn dance. Ben Wagner '22 volunteering to help at Gamma Phi Beta's Feed My Starving Children event. Keith McGreggor '22 at Farm Lake with his date. "Jason Mueller was a very quiet young friend, but his sincerity and smile more than made up for that. He was always willing to listen and give advice. He was a very patient person, and in a fraternity filled with 20 year olds, that was a rare trait. He was the type of guy who stood by and stood up for his friends. For a smaller guy, Jason packed a lot of love and punch." -David Ahlstrand '01, former room- mate. Jason also introduced David and his wife to each other. "Jason was quick with a smile and always encouraged me to take the joke to the next level. At the same time, he was a loyal and committed friend; one that I always felt had my back unconditionally. Jason always openly welcomed me into his life and made me feel comfortable. He was truly a remarkable and generous friend." -Justin Harmon '00, former roommate. Remembering Jason

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