Born Ruth Marian McGowan on October 1, 1929, in Crystal Township, Tama County, Iowa, she was the daughter of Raynard B. and Sybil Young McGowan. She was raised on the family farm and received her early education at a country school near Reinbeck, alongside her older sisters, Eleanor and Rachel. Upon relocating to Waterloo with her family in 1944, she attended Waterloo West High School, graduating in 1947. Following high school, she pursued higher education at Tarkio College, where she completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education in 1952.

While at Tarkio College, Ruth met the love of her life, Don M. Hayes, on a blind date. After dating for six months, the couple was united in marriage on October 20, 1952 in Waterloo, Iowa. The couple resided in Ohio, New Providence, Gladbrook, and Waukon during the first years of their marriage before settling permanently in Marshalltown in 1962. Ruth was an employee of the Marshalltown school system, teaching at Palmer and Fisher Elementaries until her retirement in 1989.

In retirement, Ruth and Don remained active in the community. They shared a passion for golfing, playing cards, and cheering on Iowa State athletics. Faith played an important role in Ruth’s life and she was a devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church. She took immense joy in following the activities of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Her memory will be cherished by her daughter, Ann (Jeff) Isgrig; son-in-law, Mike (Grace) Skov; five grandchildren, Jonathan (Stephanie) Isgrig, Matthew Skov, Ryan (Stephannie) Isgrig, Gary Nordyke, and Katlin Nordyke (Jay) Podrasky; and seven great-grandchildren, Nolan, Carson, Emmitt, Elliott, Owen, Emma, and Josephine.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Don; her parents; two sisters (Eleanor Tjepkes and Rachel Crawford); daughters Carol Skov and Patricia “Patty” Nordyke; grandson Kyle Skov; great-granddaughter Averie Isgrig; son-in-law Wayne “Gus” Nordyke and many other dear relatives.

Following Ruth's wishes, no formal service will be held. A private interment will take place at Riverside Cemetery. An Open House to honor Ruth's life will be held for family and friends at the Elmwood Country Club on September 6, 2026, between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Ruth shared these thoughts: “Honor my memory alongside loved ones; enjoy a fine meal, share some laughs, savor a glass of wine, and cherish life.”

In honor of Ruth’s lifelong dedication to Marshalltown, the family suggests memorials be directed to the Marshalltown First Presbyterian Church, Marshalltown High School (Activities Department), Friends of the Marshalltown Public Library, or Iowa River Hospice.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Iowa River Hospice, Home Instead, McFarland Clinic, Anderson Funeral Home, and her friends and staff at The Embers Retirement Community for their compassionate care.