Charles Muller, a World War II veteran and longtime Edison resident, has left a lasting legacy for the animals of the Cape May County Zoo. Upon his passing in September 2022 at the age of 93, Muller bequeathed his entire estate, valued at $1.4 million, to the zoo.
Muller’s love for the zoo began in the early 2000s when he and his wife, Elizabeth, stumbled upon it while driving on the Garden State Parkway. They became frequent visitors, enjoying the diverse array of animals and the zoo’s commitment to conservation.
After Elizabeth’s passing in 2010, Muller continued to visit the zoo, forming a friendship with the zoo’s director, Michael Laffey. In a surprising move, Muller named Laffey as the executor of his will, entrusting him with the distribution of his estate.
The zoo announced the extraordinary donation in July, 2024, describing it as the largest single contribution in its history. The funds will be used to support the zoo’s ongoing operations, animal care, and conservation efforts.
Muller’s generosity is a testament to his lifelong passion for animals and his desire to ensure their well-being. His legacy will live on through the countless animals that will benefit from his extraordinary gift.
“We are incredibly grateful for Mr. Muller’s generosity,” said Laffey. “His donation will have a profound impact on our ability to provide the highest quality care for our animals and to continue our important conservation work.”
The Cape May County Zoo is a free zoo, relying on donations to support its operations. Muller’s donation is a shining example of the power of individual philanthropy to make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals and the community.
