Bill Muse

July 10, 1948 — March 22, 2024

Boulder, Utah

Willis H. Muse Jr.
Boulder, Utah

    Willis H. Muse Jr. known as Bill Muse, age 75, died on March 22, 2024, at his home in Boulder.  Bill was adored for his love of horses, generous nature, and quick sense of humor.  He was our beloved father, grandfather, husband, brother, uncle, and friend. 
    Bill was born July 10, 1948, in Salt Lake City, to Willis H. Muse Sr. and Elnora Jean Harding Muse. He was the oldest of five children.  Married to Adalee Beesley in 1965, they are the parents of three children: Jennifer, Billy, and Josey.  
    Bill attended Skyline High School in Salt Lake City where he excelled in football and track. He was the president of the Skyline High School band and received recognition as an outstanding bandsman for clarinet.  He carried these talents to the University of Utah where he played as split end for the Ute’s football team and was a member of the University’s Concert Band. His love of athletics continued as he coached and mentored many young men in Little League baseball, high school basketball, and youth football.  Bill was also a Boy Scout Scoutmaster for many years.  He loved hearing from his students, as adults, thanking him for his leadership and guidance. 
    As owner of Muse Farms since 1973, Bill trained hundreds of horses.  He worked with both quarter horses and thoroughbreds, but predominantly thoroughbred racehorses. He mentored many in the art of horse training, using his “Medicine Circle” approach in the round-ring. His method of training was philosophical as well as physical, using his athletic training, knowledge of physical therapy, and spiritual beliefs in his program. In his last years, Bill expressed often how he wished he could ride again.  Bill’s beloved stallion, Valley Count, passed long ago and we hope they are now reunited, galloping through the fields with big smiles. 
    Bill loved his community.  He gave 16 years of dedicated service to Boulder Town. He served as a town councilman from 2001 to 2005.  In 2005 Bill was elected as mayor of Boulder.  He served three more terms as mayor until 2017.  He was also an advocate for sustainable agriculture and was president of the Boulder Irrigation Company for two decades.  His proudest civil accomplishments were the renovation of the Boulder Community Center, the development of the Boulder Town Park, and the protection of agricultural water rights. 
    While pursuing all these personal and professional accomplishments, Bill continued to be a constant advocate for his son, two daughters and grandson.  He treasured his time with us and especially loved being a grandpa.  He surrounded us with unconditional love and support, always.  We love you, Dad, and will honor and cherish you throughout all lifetimes.  Give Billy a big hug for us. 
    Bill is survived by his wife Adalee; daughters: Jennifer Muse (Barbara Curtis), and Josey Muse; grandchild, Matthew McArthur; sisters: Debbie Muse (Robert) Spafford and Nancy Muse (Michael) Lewis; and brother David Muse.  Preceded in death by his parents; son, Willis Matthew Muse “Billy”; sister, Janet Muse Gray; and nephew, Cody Spafford.
    In loving memory of Bill, we will celebrate his life and legacy on April 26, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. at the Boulder Community Center, 351 N 100 East, Boulder. Family and friends are welcome as we honor the memories and cherish the moments we shared together. Cremation in the Magleby Mortuary and Cremation Center. Online guestbook at www.maglebymortuary.com