Donald “Don” Mueller, the guy who always had a joke and a need for speed, was born on Oct. 20, 1932, to Arthur and Ruth Mueller in Los Angeles, California.

Don passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, just six weeks after the passing of his beloved wife and best friend, Marcia.

A resident of Santa Barbara since 1960, Don worked as a lineman in the transmission department for Southern California Edison, retiring after a dedicated career in 1988.

Don also loved his job at the Ben Page Youth Center, where he served as the head of maintenance for 20 years. He was an avid boater who loved spending his weekends waterskiing with local boat clubs throughout the 1960s and 1970s.

Don’s ultimate passion, however, was quarter-mile drag boat racing. He was a highly respected driver and the go-to person to drive for many successful teams. Drag boat racing took him and his family to numerous venues all across the country, winning many championships along the way.

Over the years, Don owned many classic cars and trucks, showcasing them at shows all over California.

He was an active and proud member of the Burbank Road Kings. Don and Marcia loved being part of the Road Kings family and made many long, lasting friendships.

Don is preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 73 years, Marcia; and his son, Donnie Jr.

He is survived by his daughter Cheryl Vendrame (Doug); son Steve Mueller (Nancy); and four grandchildren Jordon Vendrame (Kimi), Jared Vendrame (Christina), Elizabeth Mueller Ceballos, and Nicholas Mueller.

He is also survived by four great-grandchildren Simon Vendrame, Chelsea Kunde, Fisher Rhoades, and Samantha Ceballos; his sister Marcia Bryars; and his beloved dog “Moosey.”

Don will forever be remembered as the “Mayor of Tajo Drive.” He was loved by all of his neighbors for his quick sense of humor, boundless generosity, and constant willingness to lend a hand. He will be truly missed by all who had the privilege to know and love him.

Please join us to celebrate Don and Marcia, and the wonderful life they shared. A Celebration of Life will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 6 at the San Antonio Village Clubhouse, 39 N. San Marcos Road, Santa Barbara.