Sometimes, you come across people who are an inspiration to everyone they meet. That’s certainly the case for Tracy Mueller, FirstBank customer and author. See how FirstBank surprised Tracy with the book signing event of a lifetime.

Meet the author.

Tracy Mueller has been a FirstBank customer for 20 years. As you can imagine, he’s formed strong bonds and built lifelong relationships with various members of the FirstBank team. Though Tracy lives with Cerebral Palsy and is a quadriplegic, he doesn’t let it define him. He’s overcame epic obstacles and served as an inspiration to many. When Tracy retired from years of working as a probation officer in Larimer County, he spent his time helping guide troubled youth.

In 2022, Tracy began writing an autobiography, which he completed entirely through dictation. With little to no knowledge of how to write a book or get it published; he was determined. In June 2024, “Realize the Blessing” was printed as a harrowing story of faith and resilience. Tracy recounts the challenges and triumphs of living with Cerebral Palsy. Completing such a feat should never go unnoticed. That’s why FirstBank set out to recognize his efforts and celebrate the joy he’s given everyone over the years.

“Tracy has always been an amazing storyteller. His big personality and contagious laughter can turn any bad day into a good one,” said Julie Meadows, Executive Assistant in the Northern Colorado Market.

The book signing.

The team at our Northern Colorado location moved heaven and earth to help create a once-in-a-lifetime book signing event for Tracy. They coordinated a date for several community members, local nonprofit leaders, friends, family, and coworkers who had been inspired by Tracy’s presence to attend.

On the big day, Tracy floated down the red carpet full of smiles and budding tears. As heartwarming as this scene was, it wouldn’t be a Tracy moment without a bit of humor. He rocked out to “Welcome to the Jungle” by Guns N’ Roses as he took the stage. With nearly 70 attendees, Tracy gave a heartwarming speech thanking everyone for coming. He got choked up and paused before saying, “This means the world to me!”

After his speech, Tracy even answered a few questions from the audience. One attendee asked, “Where am I in the book?” Tracy let out a big laugh and said, “Oh, you’ll be in the second one.” Once the questions began to fade, the book signing commenced. On behalf of FirstBank, attendees received a complimentary copy of “Realize the Blessing,” signed (stamped) by Tracy.

Some of Tracy’s close friends and family were also in attendance. Pat Brady, who worked at FirstBank for 30 years before retiring, was there to cheer on his friend. “It’s been fun sharing Tracy with the world. He’s an amazing guy. Everyone can learn something from him,” said Pat.

Tracy’s life has inspired many, including his brother, Troy Mueller. “Growing up with Tracy was a reminder of the blessings I had. It encouraged me to never take anything for granted,” said Troy.

A huge shout-out to the Northern Colorado team who set up this event and showed Tracy how much he means to them.

“We’ve had the opportunity to see Tracy in our branch for over two decades. Little did we know he’d become a friend and an inspiration to us. He embodies characteristics of the person I aspire to be,” said Nicole Staudinger, Northern Colorado Market President.

For more inspirational stories where FirstBank brings “banking for good” to life, visit efirstbankblog.com/actsofgoodness.

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