Patricia and Kenneth Spitzmueller Identified in Tragic Minnetonka Murder-Suicide

Authorities have identified the 70-year-old couple who tragically died in a murder-suicide in Minnetonka last week. Patricia Ann Spitzmueller, 71, from Savage, was found fatally shot in the head at an apartment located at 12201 Minnetonka Boulevard on Thursday, July 18. The Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed her death as a homicide.

Her husband, Kenneth Robert Spitzmueller, 76, from Minnetonka, was also discovered at the scene with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. The tragic discovery was made after a neighbor called police at 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, reporting that the couple was found motionless. Upon arrival, officers declared both individuals dead at the scene.

In honor of their lives, a private cremation ceremony will be held on Tuesday, July 30th. This will be followed by a public celebration of their lives from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at The Hutton House, located at 10715 S Shore Dr, Medicine Lake, MN 55441. The community is invited to join in remembering Kenneth and Patricia Spitzmueller, whose enduring love story touched many lives.

Kenneth Robert Spitzmueller, born on February 4, 1948, in St. Paul, Minnesota, was known for his deep passion for music. He performed guitar at St. Luke’s Parish, where he first met Patricia. A graduate of Cretin High School, Ken served in the United States Air Force for four years and later established a successful furniture sales business. He was admired for his willingness to help others, his meticulous attention to detail, his contagious laugh, and his friendly demeanor.

Patricia Ann Spitzmueller, born on January 22, 1953, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, also shared a love for music. On her final day, she humorously reminisced about “rubbing elbows” with Ken while they played guitar together as young people, a cherished memory of their early romance. Tricia attended Derham Hall and Carleton College, where she earned a BA in Art History and Studio Art. She furthered her education with a degree in Pastoral Ministries from Loyola Chicago and worked as a Spiritual Director. Patricia was internationally recognized for her textile arts and was known for her boundless compassion, curiosity, and her enjoyment of deep, reflective conversations.

The loss of Kenneth and Patricia Spitzmueller has deeply affected their friends, family, and the community. Their lives and the impact they had on those around them will be remembered during the upcoming celebration of their lives. The public is encouraged to attend and pay tribute to a couple whose love and contributions will continue to inspire those who knew them.