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Dr. Ruth Ann Meyer

July 15, 2019
Kalamazoo, MI

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Ruth Ann Meyer, 83, passed away Monday, July 15, 2019. Ruth Ann was born December 30, 1935 in Aplington, IA to the late Henry and Nancy (Janssen) Meyer. Ruth Ann dedicated her life to athletics, and she was a trailblazer in the advancement of women in sports and gender equality. In 2000 she was honored in the Hall of Fame at her Alma Mater University of Northern Iowa ('58) and in 1993 at Western Michigan University for her contributions to women's athletics. She was part of a large group of women and men instrumental in the passing of Title IX (a 1972 federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any federally funded education program or activity). In 2003 she was honored with the WMU Woman of the Year. She was the first senior female administrator at WMU, serving as Assistant Athletic Director from 1972-76. Prior to this Ruth Ann was the chair of the Women's Recreation Association from 1965-72 where she was also the Head Volleyball Coach (115-82, two undefeated seasons '65 & '67). Ruth Ann received her Masters degree from Northern Colorado ('64) and her Doctorate from the University of Iowa ('84). She was involved in many state and national physical education associations. In addition to her successes in athletics, Ruth Ann was a strong supporter of her community volunteering on numerous civic boards and supporting countless charitable organizations. Ruth Ann is survived by her nephews, Howard (Pam) Meyer and Keith (Renee) Meyer; and niece, Kathleen (David) Santori; and numerous cousins and extended family. She was preceded in death by her brother, Merlyn Meyer. A memorial service for Ruth will be Saturday, July 27th, doors open at 10:30 am, Reflection & Testimonials begin at 11:00 am, in the Family Life Center at Lakeland Reformed Church, 10442 S Sprinkle Rd, Vicksburg, MI 49097. Services are entrusted to Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial & Cremation Services, 622 S Burdick St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007. Burial will take place at Pleasant View Cemetery, Aplington, IA on Sunday, July 28th at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the church. Please visit Ruth's personalized webpage at https://www.langelands.com