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In the loving attendance of family, Dr. Frederick Alfred Mulhauser, passed peacefully away, January 17, 2017.
Born to Mrs. Helen B. and Maj. Samuel A. Mulhauser, January 24, 1922, Fred and his older brother, Robert, shared their childhood with faithful collie, Riever, in Highland Park, MI. Tragedy struck the family with the sudden death of Fred's father and again in 1942 when Robert, an RCAF pilot perished in WWII. Fred then served in the U.S. Navy till war's end. In 1956 his beloved mother, Helen, passed away as Fred kept vigil.
Loss served to deepen his compassion and understanding, hallmarks of his nature and foundation of every relationship. Empathy was Fred's compass and kindness his credo.
Although Fred received his PHD from U of M his heart belonged to Wayne State University. There he was student, Professor, director of Division of Health and Physical Education, Athletic Director, legendary Tennis Coach of 25 years, and Athletic Hall of Fame inductee for the most Conference wins in Wayne's history. The most valued awards woven throughout his 40 year career were the life-long bonds of affection forged with his colleagues and student-athletes. Fred made Wayne everyone's second home.
Fred loved golf, gadgets, a "sumptuous buffet", and a Sinatra ballad. Heading to the links with his former tennis players was an especial joy. He was the father of invention, soul of patience, font of wisdom and stories who counseled, "To each his own" and "This too shall pass." Fred was pragmatic optimist and keen appraiser of human nature. He made sport of his own foibles and left un-remarked those of others.
But nothing eclipsed Fred's devotion to family: son, Fred; daughter, Celeste, and cherished wife , Irene. He was the dad who roasted hotdogs in the fireplace on a Winter's night, who believed every childhood infraction had a reason, and every grievance deserved a hearing. He was the "Great Mulhauso" of Christmas Eve with gag gifts and riddles. He was harbor and haven.
Irene could always track him by his whistle, and for years he marked their anniversary every month with flowers. For her, Fred was the stalwart love of her life and gallant champion until her death in June of 2014.
Though Fred would chuckle at such homage, those who knew him would affirm the sentiment of one longtime friend, "The good news is he's in a better place; the bad news is, he's irreplaceable."
Fred will be treasured in memory by his children, son, Fred (Paula) Mulhauser, daughter, Celeste (John) Frawley; grandchildren, Travis (Cassy), Kyler (Maria), Whitney Mulhauser, Rachel, John Jr., Jesse Frawley; great grandchildren, Leo, Edie, Quenby, Jonah Mulhuser. Nieces: Nancy (Joe) Hutcheson , Carol (Keith) Hartwell and grandnephew, Taylor Hartwell. Fred is preceded in death by his in-laws Rosemary and Roy Hutcheson. A celebration of his life to be announced. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Wayne State University Athletic Department.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes.
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