NEENAH, Wis. (WFRV) – What was supposed to be another day at the ballpark turned into a memorable Father’s Day surprise for longtime coach Gib Mueller.

While coaching a Discovery League game Sunday evening at Mueller Field in Neenah, Mueller was greeted by dozens of family members, friends, former players, coaches and community members celebrating his 50 years of volunteer service to local baseball.

The surprise celebration honored Mueller’s decades of dedication to Neenah Little League and the Discovery League, a baseball program that provides opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

“We’re celebrating my husband’s 50 years of coaching, Neenah Little League and Discovery League,” said his wife, Linda Mueller. “It has been passionate, caring and loving for his players. And he loves the sport of baseball. And he’s dedicated his life to baseball.”

Mueller’s coaching career began when his oldest son, Andy, started playing Little League at age nine. When his two stepsons later reached the same age, he continued coaching and never stepped away from the game.

Over the years, Mueller served as a coach, board member, equipment manager and Little League director. He also helped establish and grow the Discovery League program in Neenah.

“I started out in Little League with my son when he was nine,” Mueller said. “I was director of Little League for 20 years. Then in between, we started Discovery League. I’ve been doing that ever since we started.”

Linda Mueller says her husband’s impact reaches far beyond the baseball diamond. “It’s his passion,” she said. “He loves working with adults and children and giving them guidance. He’s a mentor for them.”

The surprise left Mueller speechless.

“Oh, this is just unbelievable,” he said. “I look over and all these people are coming. It’s a total surprise.” Even after five decades of coaching, Mueller says the players continue to motivate him.

“For me they’re like family,” he said. “I’ve been coaching a lot of them for a long time. It’s always nice to get new people in.”

At 79 years old, his family says retirement is nowhere in sight.

“He will never, never hang it up,” Linda Mueller said. “He just turned 79, and I don’t foresee him quitting at all. I love him for what he’s done for the community, for the Little Leaguers, for the Discovery League and for Neenah baseball.”

After 50 years in the dugout, the community made sure one of its most dedicated volunteers knew just how much his efforts have meant.

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