It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our co-founder, Phil Yurgae, on May 23, 2026.
For more than five decades, Phil played an instrumental role in shaping Mueller Yurgae Associates into the company it is today. His leadership, vision, and commitment to building strong relationships helped establish a foundation that continues to guide our organization and influence our culture.
In 1975, Phil cofounded Mueller Yurgae Associates alongside Fred Mueller. Together, they built the company on principles of integrity, service, trust, and a genuine commitment to helping clients succeed. What began as a shared vision grew into one of the Midwest’s leading food brokerage organizations, serving retailers, manufacturers, and partners throughout the region.
While Phil was proud of the company’s growth and accomplishments, he was most proud of the people. He believed that strong businesses are built by strong relationships, and he invested deeply in those around him. Throughout his career, Phil served as a mentor, advisor, and friend to countless employees, clients, customers, and industry partners. He genuinely cared about helping others succeed and took great satisfaction in seeing people grow both personally and professionally.
Phil’s impact extended well beyond Mueller Yurgae Associates. Throughout his career, he earned the respect of colleagues across the industry through his dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to service. He personally called on Casey’s General Stores for many years and developed relationships that stood the test of time. His contributions were recognized by Casey’s through the presentation of a Recognition Coin honoring his role in their success and growth.
In 2012, Phil received one of the industry’s highest honors when the Iowa Grocery Industry Association presented him with its Lifetime Achievement Award. The award recognized not only his professional accomplishments, but also the positive influence he had on the people and organizations around him. Those who worked alongside Phil understood that his success was measured not simply by business results, but by the relationships he built and the opportunities he created for others. Below is Phil’s tribute video from his Iowa Grocery Industry Association Lifetime Achievement Award recognition.
Beyond his professional achievements, Phil was a devoted family man. He was a loving husband to Rosemary, his wife of 56 years, a dedicated father, and a proud grandfather. Family was always at the center of his life, and he cherished every opportunity to spend time with those he loved.
Phil was also known for his enthusiasm and passions outside of work. He was an avid sports fan, particularly of the Green Bay Packers, Iowa Hawkeyes, and Milwaukee Brewers. He enjoyed both playing and watching golf, collecting sports memorabilia, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. Those who knew Phil often remember his warmth, sense of humor, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
As we reflect on Phil’s life and legacy, we are reminded that Mueller Yurgae Associates would not be what it is today without his vision, dedication, and leadership. The values he helped establish continue to guide our organization, and his influence can still be seen in the relationships we build, the service we provide, and the culture we foster.
While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a remarkable life and the countless lives he touched throughout his career and beyond. We are grateful for the example he set, the opportunities he created, and the lasting impact he made on our company, our partners, and our industry.
On behalf of everyone at Mueller Yurgae Associates, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Phil’s family, friends, former colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Thank you, Phil, for your leadership, friendship, and the foundation you built. Your contributions to Mueller Yurgae Associates and the many people you influenced will never be forgotten.
For service information and to view Phil’s full obituary, please visit: https://www.ilesfuneralhomes.com/obituary/Phillip-G.-Yurgae/Clive-Iowa/1894714
