When Harry and Martha Mueller reflect on their five decades with Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota, and now Children’s Home, they see a life shaped by compassion, and a deep belief that every child deserves a safe, loving home.
In 1975, after working with LSS to establish a community resettlement group for Vietnamese refugees, the Muellers were contacted about a teenage boy in need of a foster family. With open hearts, they welcomed their first foster child, Huy.
Over the years, the Muellers fostered three children. “All three of our foster children had significant emotional challenges from their personal histories,” she said. With the support of LSS, the family navigated the complexities of healing. Harry emphasized, “We couldn’t have made it without them.”
Their family continued to grow through adoption. The Muellers worked with LSS to adopt their daughter, Naomi, from South Korea. For Martha, adoption felt like a natural extension of their calling.
One of the most meaningful moments in their journey came decades later, during their 50th wedding anniversary. As the family gathered in the kitchen, their son, Duc, reflected on his years with them, saying, “You always treated me the same as everybody else. I was your family.” Martha still tears up remembering that moment — a powerful reminder of the lasting bonds they built together.
Today, after five decades and six wonderful children, the Muellers remain deeply committed to LSS and Children’s Home’s missions. Their planned gift supporting adoption, foster care and refugee services reflects their hope that future families will receive the same life‑changing support they once did.
