Murilyn G. Koutstaal

Murilyn G. Koutstaal passed peacefully in her sleep on September 12, 2023. Murilyn was an educated pioneer and adventurer. In the mid 50’s she left her hometown in Massachusetts to pursue a college degree. She graduated with a BA and MA from Oberlin College. After college she went to school, worked and traveled extensively; domestically and internationally. Her travels in Europe brought her to the Netherlands for a job. While singing in her church choir she met her husband of 44 years, Cornelis Koutstaal. They emigrated to the US for jobs. In communities from coast to coast she made a home for her family and invested herself into the culture of each.

Murilyn cherished family and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Cornelis. She is survived by her sister Frostine (Victor) Beckmann, sons Robbart (Julie) and Stanley (Kelli) Koutstaal and three grandchildren Reid (Morgan), Casey (Angelica) and Skye and nieces Sandy, Miriam and Naomi. Her love of family spilled into her love for travel. She took her family to places and events on 6 continents. An ardent Congregationalist, she considered exploring her direct relationship with God the greatest gift she received. She particularly enjoyed traveling to places (sub terranean temples in Ethiopia) and events (The Passion Play in Austria) involving faith. She explored other people’s expression of faith without bias or judgement.

Murilyn was a model for young (and old) people to emulate. She was a feminist before it was fashionable. Always representing for her gender, she broke glass ceilings while navigating social norms of the day with hard work and in sincere partnership. Murilyn will be remembered in Kirksville through her ties to Rotary International, the Kirksville Arts Center, Community Opportunities and annual Sinter Klaas deliveries in her neighborhood.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Community Opportunities, LLC or the Kirksville Arts Center, both of Kirksville, MO.

Arrangements in the care of Davis-Playle-Hudson-Rimer Funeral Home; www.davisplaylehudsonrimer.com.