Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder was born in 1964 to Karen Lee Vedder and Edward Louis Severson. However, while he was a baby, his parents divorced in 1965. Before long, Vedder’s mother married a man named Peter Mueller. The singer grew up believing that Mueller was his biological father and as a child went by the name Edward Mueller.
When he was a teenager, Eddie’s mother and Mueller divorced. Following his mother’s divorce from his stepfather, Vedder learned the truth about who his real father was. As a child, he had met his biological father, but Severson posed as an old family friend. When Eddie learned the truth, his father had died of multiple sclerosis. While later, this part of his life would be the subject of the rocker’s songs. An old newspaper clipping from 1968 has surfaced on social media. While Eddie was sitting home alone at age 13, his step-father was writing a letter to the editor of the local newspaper, trying to find round-the-clock specialty care for his real father. It read:
“Q-I’m writing for your readers’ help or guidance to obtain in-home care for one of my clients, who has become in- capacitated by his brave battle with multiple sclerosis.
Edward Severson is a fine young man whose singing career has been completely wrecked by the creeping physical dis- ability accompanying his 10-year fight with the disease.
In short, I need to locate a nurse or person who has ex- perience caring for victims of MS. Can you or your readers help? Help would also be welcome regarding Ed’s ambitious plans to produce and market his patented product. Anyone wishing to assist can call me through my office at 745-5200 in Escondido to schedule interviews or otherwise make suggestions.
In 1966, when he first contracted MS, Ed was an aspiring young entertainer. During his short but active career, he developed friendships with top Hollywood stars, including Jim- my Durante and Ethel Merman, and was well on his way, we all believed, to the top.
Since his illness, however, he has become almost completely disabled and now requires constant attention. During a recent visit, I was pleased to see that although his body is dissipated, he still harbors a vibrant and enthusiastic spirit. He continues to plan many business ventures that his active mind has developed. For example, he has obtained a patent on one of his ideas that might help him earn a living if he were to have the proper care and advice. He plans to produce and market recordings of graduation ceremonies, church services, school plays and musicals. I need to find capable in-home care for him so he won’t be left alone or unaided for any period of time. I don’t think, for example, that Ed will be able to survive anywhere without almost round-the-clock supervision.
Peter J. Mueller, attorney, Escondido”
