Ruth Andrus

Headshot of Ruth Andrus

Pronouns: She/Her
Physical Education

SDSU

Bio

Ruth Andrus was born in Marion, Utah, one of three daughters and two sons of Harriet Emily Stevenson and Joseph Boyes Andrus. Joseph Andrus was a farmer. The family was Mormon.

Ruth received her B.S. degree from Utah State, M.S. from the University of Oregon, and Ph.D. from the University of Iowa.

She married Gilbert Elmer Bowie in 1948, but they divorced in 1952. Ruth began her academic career at San Diego State in 1962 as Assistant Professor and rose to the rank of Professor during her 20-year career on the faculty. Ruth was a scholarly faculty member. She taught in the graduate program and chaired thesis research. Among her contributions to the Department was serving as the graduate advisor.

Ruth retired in 1982 as Emeritus Professor of Physical Education. She returned to her native state of Utah. She passed away in Salt Lake City, Utah in 2008 at the age of 89. Among the words of praise in her Obituary was written the following: “Ruth was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and found joy in giving service in her many callings. Her life was one of compassion, service, and generosity.”