Ruth Andersen

Ruth Naomi (McDermott) Andersen, 90, passed away April 12, 2014, at Salem Lutheran Home in Elk Horn, Iowa. She was born December 9, 1923, near Walnut, Iowa, the daughter of Edward “Ted” and Myrtle (Namanny) McDermott.

Ruth graduated early from Atlantic High School in 1940, and married Clarence L. Andersen on May 9, 1946, in Omaha. They farmed north of Atlantic for thirty-five years. Ruth also worked outside of the home at Sears-Roebuck, Allied Engineering, and for 20 years as a receptionist at the Heritage House in Atlantic.

Ruth enjoyed her time gardening, cooking, and serving others. The coffee was always on, and she welcomed company at any time. She cherished her friends and time with family, playing cards, buying gifts, and traveling. Las Vegas was a popular destination, and many trips were made with good friends, the Podolaks and the Waggoners.

She was an active and long-time member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and BPO – DOES. Ruth was a caring mother, grandmother, aunt, neighbor and friend. She was kind to all, and truly believed that any day could be made better with cake or chocolate.

Ruth is survived by her son Larry (Karen) Andersen of Ankeny and six grandchildren: Shelly (Chris) Harden of Grimes; Steve (Sue) Andersen of Atlantic; Becky (Scott) McDonald of Ankeny; Jennifer (Eric) Connor of Grimes; Chris (Emily) Odgaard of Pleasant Hill; and Chad (Tara) Andersen of Ankeny. Beloved great-grandchildren include Jessica Tometich, Alex Rozeboom, Avery Andersen, Harley Rozeboom, Chloe Andersen, Paige Harden, Lucy Andersen, Jagger Odgaard, Beckham Odgaard, Simon Andersen and MacKenzie Connor. Ruth is also survived by a sister-in-law, Patricia McDermott of Pompano Beach, Florida, and was affectionately called “Aunt Ruthie” by many nieces and nephews.

Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, sister Maxine Bladt, brother Leroy McDermott, and step-brothers Lamond Bramer and Duane “Shorty” Bramer.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, April 16, 2014, at 11:00 AM at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Atlantic with Pastor Grant Van Lishout officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday, April 15, 2014, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM at Hockenberry Family Care in Atlantic.

Memorials may be directed to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Atlantic.