Kathryn A. Muller
Kathryn "Kate" Muller, lovingly known by many as "the Commissioner," passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones after a courageous battle with brain cancer (Glioblastoma).
Born on August 24, 1959, Kate was a lifelong member of the Steuben County community and someone who left a lasting impression everywhere she went. She graduated from Haverling High School, where she played the clarinet in the band, was a member of the swim team, and enjoyed synchronized swimming. Kate was an avid gardener, loved the beach, and it could never be warm enough for her.
From an early age, she possessed the determination, confidence, and quick wit that would define her throughout her life. Kate devoted nearly 40 years of her life to serving the residents of Steuben County. Beginning her career as a social worker, she rose through the ranks through hard work, intelligence, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. On December 4, 2000, she became Commissioner of the Steuben County Department of Social Services, a position she would hold for more than twenty-five years.
Under Kate's leadership, the Department grew and evolved to meet the changing needs of the community. She championed programs that strengthened families, protected vulnerable adults and children, expanded housing and support services, and helped countless individuals find stability during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. She believed deeply that public service mattered and that every person deserved to be treated with dignity and respect. Her influence extended far beyond Steuben County through her work with state and regional organizations, where she advocated tirelessly for rural communities and the people they served.
In 2020, Kate was appointed as president of the New York Public Welfare Association (NYPWA), which was an accomplishment in itself. To many employees, Kate was more than a commissioner. She was a mentor, teacher, problem-solver, and had a steady presence during difficult times. She expected excellence, spoke her mind, and never shied away from making hard decisions, but those who knew her best also knew the compassion behind that strength. She celebrated the successes of others, offered guidance when it was needed, and was always willing to fight for what she believed was right.
Outside of work, Kate's greatest accomplishment and proudest role was being a mother and grandmother. She loved her daughters fiercely and found immense joy in watching her family grow. Becoming "Grammy Kate" brought a special kind of happiness to her life, and she treasured every moment spent with Avery, Blake, and Carter.
Kate had a gift for storytelling and could turn even ordinary moments into unforgettable memories. She could make people laugh until they cried, command a room without raising her voice, and somehow make everyone feel like they belonged. Her friendships spanned decades, and many of those friends became family. She was fiercely loyal, endlessly generous with her time, and the person people called when they needed advice, honesty, or simply someone to listen.
Above all else, Kate loved deeply and lived fully. She leaves behind a legacy not only through her years of public service but through the countless lives she touched as a leader, colleague, mentor, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend.
She was predeceased by her parents, Fred and Mary Ellen Muller. She is survived by her daughters, Mackenzie Stratton and Logan Zuppelli; Mackenzie's partner, Casey Johnston, and their daughters, Avery and Blake Johnston; and Logan's husband, Joseph Zuppelli, and their daughter, Carter Zuppelli. She is also survived by her brothers, Jeff Muller and his partner, Karen Lewis; Tomas Muller; and Fredrick Muller Sr. and his wife, Elizabeth Muller; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, lifelong friends, and colleagues who became family.
The family would like to thank the many healthcare professionals, hospice staff, friends, coworkers, and loved ones who supported Kate throughout her illness and surrounded her with compassion and love. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Adding Candles in Rochester, NY, in memory of Kate.
Adding Candles
PO Box 10717
Rochester, NY 14610
https://www.addingcandles.org
In true Kate fashion, the family asks that those remembering her share stories, laugh loudly, love fiercely, stand up for what they believe in, and never take life too seriously.
Calling hours will be Thursday, June 25th, from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM at Fagan's Funeral Home in Bath, NY. The funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church on Friday, June 26, at 11:00 AM, and the burial will be directly following in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Bath.