Ruth Fortson Anderson, age 85, of Grinnell, Iowa, died on Friday, July 26, 2013, of complications from pancreatic cancer at the Mayflower Community Health Care Center in Grinnell. As per her wishes, her body has been deeded to the University of Iowa for anatomical research. The family plans to hold a local memorial service upon the return of her remains from the university at a date to be determined. Memorials may be made in Ruth's name to D.E.L.T.A Animal Rescue, P.O. Box 9, Glendale, CA 91209 www.deltarescue.org or the Poweshiek Animal League Shelter www.helpPALSanimals.com. Memories and condolences may be shared on the Smith Funeral Home website at www.smithfh.com. Ruth was born the daughter of Gordon Russell and Inesse Yount Fortson on December 1, 1927, in San Francisco, California. She spent her childhood in their hometown of Susanville, CA, and later attended Colorado College where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. During her more than 50 years in Grinnell, Ruth spent her professional life at the Grinnell Travel Center and most recently in reception at Iowa Valley Community College. The greatest joy of her retirement years was caring for her beloved dogs. Additionally, she enjoyed nature and wildlife photography, was an avid reader, and supported a variety of non-profit animal protection organizations. Ruth is survived by her sons, Jeremy Kurtz of Minneapolis, Minnesota; Gordon Kurtz of Corvallis, Oregon; and her cherished dogs Leisel and Chaco. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John Anderson, and her aunt, Dorothy Yount Gonzales.