2021 Citizen of Achievement – Alan Mueth

Pictured: Gina Brunkhorst, Julie Stern, Tami Pautler, Alan Mueth, Bradley Mayberry, and Lisa Woods.

Normally, the Red Bud Citizen of Achievement Award is presented at the annual Red Bud Chamber of Commerce dinner. However with this year’s dinner cancelled, the recipient was surprised with the honor last week.

On May 25, while at The Office for what he thought was just a family birthday dinner, the Chamber’s board of directors completely surprised Alan Mueth.

Chamber Treasurer Brad Mayberry presented Mueth with a plaque that stated it was presented “In honor and with deep appreciation of faithful, devoted and valuable service you have given to the community of Red Bud.” Mayberry then read the letter nominating Mueth for the award.

The letter stated, “Alan has been a leader in the City of Red Bud and community all his life. He had a devotion for the history of the area and has often portrayed the early founders of Red Bud. 

“One of his biggest accomplishments in the past several years has been the restoration of the buildings downtown. With his many hours, along with his wife Karla, of hard work, they have done a remarkable job to keep the historic district alive. Without their dedication, these buildings would have deteriorated. Making two apartments into ‘Bed and No Breakfast’ has brought many outside guests, who compliment on how nice it is.

“For many, many years, he has been the one who winds the city hall clock at least once a week. That is dedication. He was also involved with the restoration of the city hall and probably a lot of other projects of which I am not aware.

“He served on the board of education at Trinity Lutheran School and was instrumental in keeping the school in session. 

“He and Karla are members of Trinity Church in Prairie. They are the parents of Tyler, Ashley and Kelsey, who have provided him with grandchildren to enjoy.

“He truly deserves the honor of being the Citizen of Achievement.”

Humbled by the honor, Mueth thanked the Chamber directors and said he was speechless.