Ruth E. Anderson

Ruth Ellen Anderson died on Sept. 10, 2023 at her home.  She was 80 years old.

Ruth Anderson was born on Sept. 24, 1942, in Manly, Iowa, to Ruth Eleanor Brown and James Louis Anderson.  She graduated from Manly High School.  She married Lawrence Lynn Cooper on Feb. 26, 1962, at Bethel EUB Church in Manly.  They had two children, Douglas and Lori Cooper.

Affectionally called “Gramma Nuts” or “Gramma Ruth,” Ruth showed up everyday to work.  She was “old school” and demanded the respect she deserved.  She was kind and understanding, but never afraid to call someone out.  She was an advocate for displaced animals.

Ruth worked many years at the Plymouth Lounge.  She also worked at the Troika in Mason City, and Mercy Hospital.  Later, she owned and operated her own cleaning business.

Ruth loved her children and her grandchildren.  She was especially proud of her grandson, Weston, and his mom, Lacy.  Ruth looked after many community members, she made sure her friends made it their appointments, and that their homes were looked after in their absence.

She was a very hard worker and never forgot her roots.  She was always empathetic to those in need.

She is survived by her children, Doug and Lori; grandchildren, Lacy (Toby) Vega, Moore, Okla., Jacob Kavanaugh, Pueblo, Colorado, Michelle Drilen, Norway, Jessie Cooper, Brandi Cooper, all of Manly; great-grandchild, Weston Vega; and great-granddaughter Vega coming very soon.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, Ruth and James Anderson; Lawrence Cooper; brother, Jim (Jimmy Bud) Anderson.

Ruth was an organ, tissue and bone donor.  Due to distance and time, there will be a memorial at a later date.  Memorials can be directed to her estate at 13976 210th St., Mason City, IA 50401.