Muffett Maria van Beethoven

Muffett Maria van Beethoven left this life in the early morning of Sunday, July 6, 2025, having endured a brief and intense experience with cancer. She was, as she wished to be, at home with her beloved dogs.

Born Muffett May Fynn, she was the third daughter of Dorothy Evalena Bowen Fynn and John Alfred Fynn. She was born in Denver and spent her early years in Wyoming and Texas. The family returned to Colorado in the mid-60s, settling in Grand Junction a year later. Muffett graduated from Grand Junction High School, attended Mesa College, and earned a bachelor’s degree from Western State College of Colorado.

After her father’s death in 1980, Muffett moved with her mother to Montrose, where they shared a home for many years. When Dorothy developed dementia, Muffett became her faithful caregiver. Muffett considered this one of the defining experiences of her life.

Her work life encompassed some variety. She began her professional life as a teacher at Oak Grove Elementary. Following that, she worked at C’s Glass for a number of years. Finally, she joined Scott Fly Rods. There, she was engaged and energized by the corporate culture and the shared commitment to excellence in craftsmanship. She spent 28 years in their employ, becoming lead wrapper.

Muffett was a creative, adept in multiple forms of expression. She was a musician, contributing piano and woodwind enhancement to worship services in her faith community. She was a painter. Most notably, she was an artisan with glass. Several examples of her work remain in in the local area, such as the “Alice” window in the Children’s Room at Montrose Public Library.

A reserved person by nature, Muffett nevertheless involved herself in the community. She was scrupulous about being an informed voter and encouraged others to do the same. She participated in many fundraisers for local organizations, especially 5K runs. She volunteered at Montrose Animal Shelter fostering dogs and was instrumental in the founding of St. Francis Animal Benevolence, a local charity. She participated with Magic Circle Players, operating the light board. She loved the County Fair and enjoyed competing in the Arts and Crafts.

Muffett was favored with rich friendships, here and at distance. By connecting online, she cultivated and maintained strong bonds with friends and family she was unable to visit. The strength of her network was well demonstrated throughout her illness.

She has been preceded in death by both parents and her oldest sister, Martha Sue Miller. She is survived by her sister Jane Fynn Janovyak and numerous nieces and nephews of two generations.

The family requests no flowers or gifts. Donations in Muffett’s honor may go to Montrose Animal Shelter, 3383 North Townsend, Montrose, CO 81401 or to Dolphin House Child Advocacy Center, 735 South 1st Street, Montrose, CO 81401.

A Celebration of Life will be held later in July.