William Michael Muller

LEXINGTON - William Michael Muller, a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, surrounded by his loving family at his home in Lexington, South Carolina. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Bill led a remarkable life that touched the hearts of many.

His early years were marked by academic excellence and athletic achievements. Bill attended Massanutten Military Academy for high school, graduating in 1964. He served on the board of Massanutten Military Academy’s Alumni Association for many years as an adult. There, he earned a four-year swimming scholarship to the University of South Carolina. As a Gamecock, he excelled as captain of the swim team, competing in the NCAA swimming tournament in individual medley, breaststroke, and medley relay. He graduated USC in 1968 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

A devoted fan of the University of South Carolina Gamecocks, Bill was honored as the legendary fan of the game at the USC Vanderbilt football game. His 52 years of membership in the Gamecock Club showcased his unwavering dedication to the university and its athletic programs.

In 1971, Bill founded Aquarian Pools of Columbia Inc., which has become the longest-standing pool construction company in South Carolina, operating across three states. He also owned and operated Aquarian’s Custom Pools - Vinyl department, leaving a legacy in the business world.

Bill's love and commitment to his family were unparalleled. He is survived by his loving wife, Marsha Price Muller; siblings, Ronnie Muller and Bonnie Bannar (Harold, dec.); and children, Michael Chad Muller (Kathy), Kelly Leigh Muller (Rob), Wesley James Muller, and Ryan (Mariah). He was a cherished grandfather and great-grandfather to Abigayle Ellis, Tyler Muller, Reese Petruzzi, Alexander Petruzzi, Caroline Petruzzi, Peyton Petruzzi, Max, and great-grandchildren, Paislee Ellis and Elijah Alger, with an expected great-granddaughter in January 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Milton Muller, and Jessica Matilda Mason.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill was an avid traveler, sports enthusiast, and loved experiencing the world in many ways. He and his wife never met a floor that wasn’t meant for dancing. Along his journey, Bill enlisted in the Army Air National Guard, where he trained as a helicopter and airplane pilot. Bill's dedication to service shaped his character and influenced his approach to life. A man of many talents, Bill was an excellent skier, a certified scuba diver, and held a black belt in karate. He was a member of the Riverbend Community Church in Lexington and was baptized. He found true love with his wife, Marsha, and lived some of the happiest years with her.

Bill's legacy lives on through the memories and lives he touched in his family and community. His amazing qualities as a person were evident in the love and support he generously offered to all. In addition to building a successful business, he became a beacon of generosity, providing opportunities for others. In his final years, he bravely faced his cancer diagnosis, continuing to actively run his family business and offer unwavering support to friends and family. Bill believed in hard work, family, and true love, leaving a permanent mark on all who knew him. His light in this life has made the world a better place for all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Riverbend Community Church at https://riverbendchurch.tpsdb.com/Give/make-a-donation or a charity of one's choice.

A Funeral to Celebrate the Life of William Michael Muller will be held on Friday, November 17, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at Riverbend Community Church with a graveside service following in Woodridge Memorial Gardens. The family will greet friends and family at a visitation on Thursday, November 16, 2023 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Dunbar Funeral Home, Dutch Fork Chapel, Irmo.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.dunbarfuneralhomedutchfork.com for the Muller family.