Mullican, Julia K. 1936-2025 St. Joseph, Mo.
Julia Kiesselbach Mullican, 88, of St. Joseph, passed away peacefully on Sept. 30, 2025. A devoted mother, friend, and educator, Julia lived a life marked by intellect, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to others. Known for her quick wit, radiant smile, and love for lively gatherings, she touched countless lives through her teaching, mentorship, and community service.
Born on Dec. 29, 1936, in Lincoln, Nebraska, Julia was the daughter of Theodore John and Charlotte E. Kiesselbach and sister to Theodore Hyde Kiesselbach, all of whom preceded her in death.
She earned her B.S. in Education (Math and Science) from the University of Cincinnati in 1958, later attaining an M.S. in Education (Guidance and Counseling) from Midwestern State University in 1973 and an Ed.S. in Counseling and Guidance (Counseling Psychology, emphasis) from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 1988. Julia began her college journey at DePauw University where she studied two years before transferring to UC. DePauw where she became a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. Her academic journey reflected a lifelong love of learning and a passion for understanding others, qualities that guided her both professionally and personally.
Julia began her tenure at Missouri Western State College in 1980 as an instructor in the Psychology Department, where she quickly became known for her warmth, scholarship, and dedication to her students. Over her 16-year career, she rose to the rank of Associate Professor and was honored with the title of Professor Emerita of Psychology upon her retirement in 1997. Her teaching portfolio was as wide-ranging as it was impactful, General Psychology, Child Psychology, Adolescent Psychology, Adulthood and Aging, Lifespan Development, Psychology of Gender, and Senior Seminar, among others. Julia’s commitment to her students extended well beyond the classroom; her office was often a refuge for those in need of guidance or simply a listening ear. In 1989, she received the prestigious Jesse Lee Myers Excellence in Teaching Award, a recognition that remained one of her proudest achievements. Julia was also proud of her involvement in founding the MWSC Ambassadors, a group that provided scholarships for non-traditional students. She was a member of many professional associations and was an active leader in the Mid America Institute of Logotherapy.
Prior to her tenure at MWSC, she worked at the Family Guidance Center from 1974 to 1978 and was the Director of the Women’s Growth Center at the YWCA from 1979 to 1980. Her influence reached beyond academia. Julia was elected to the 1980 to 1981 St. Joseph City Charter Commission that drafted a new city charter form of government that was adopted by an overwhelming vote of the citizens. The framework of that charter remains in effect today. She also served as campaign manager for Joanne Youndahl’s City Council re-election, was a member of the St. Joseph Grants Committee that apportioned federal funds to community agencies, and served on many Boards (Family Guidance Center, United Way, UCP, and others). She also supported numerous local causes, particularly those that strengthened women and families and gave professional presentations to many organizations. Colleagues remembered her as a tireless contributor, serving on many university committees and as Faculty Senate Secretary during the 1989 to 1990 academic year.
Outside of her professional life, Julia was full of energy and enthusiasm. She loved to travel, both across the United States and abroad, and was happiest when immersed in new experiences. A passionate birder, she kept parrots as cherished companions throughout her life. Julia found serenity in the outdoors, gardening, reading, walking, and she delighted in time spent with her women’s Ms. Investment group. Ever the social spirit, her annual holiday parties became legendary among family and friends, filled with laughter, stories, and her trademark humor.
Julia is survived by her children, Linda Moravac (James), of Tonganoxie, Kansas, John Mullican (Melanie), of Topeka, Kansas, Bruce Mullican, of Eugene, Oregon, and Jennifer Castellani (Paul), of Anchor Point, Alaska, along with her grandchildren Julian Mullican, Chamelea Mullican, Leo Castellani, and Theodore Castellani. She will forever be remembered as a wonderful daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, cousin, aunt, and friend who brought light and laughter to those around her.
Visitation and a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Oct. 25, at Meierhoffer Funeral Home and Crematory, in St. Joseph (5005 Frederick Ave.), with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. and services at 11 a.m. A reception with food and drink will follow until 2 p.m. Interment will take place in the spring of 2026 at Wyuka Cemetery in Lincoln, Nebraska, with details to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Second Harvest Food Bank or United Way of Greater St. Joseph.
Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.
Julia’s warmth, intelligence, and humor will be deeply missed by all who knew her. The family, especially her children, will forever miss her love, support, and sage wisdom. More than anything, we will miss her smile and her acerbic wit. “See ya, Julia.” As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.
