Ruth Handler Cause of Death: How did Ruth Handler die?

American businesswoman and inventor Ruth Handler passed away on April 27, 2002, at the age of 85. She died from complications of colon cancer.

Ruth had battled the disease for several years before her passing. In 1970, Ruth Handler was diagnosed with breast cancer.

To fight this, she underwent a modified radical mastectomy, which was a common treatment at the time. Handler decided to construct her own breast prosthesis after having difficulty finding a suitable one.

Handler created “Nearly Me” with the assistance of new business partner Peyton Massey and her new company Ruthton Corp. This idea was so popular that then-First Lady Betty Ford had one made for her.

Her death marked the end of a remarkable and influential life, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the toy industry through her role in co-founding Mattel and creating the iconic Barbie doll.

Despite her passing, her contributions to the toy world and her impact on generations of children continue to be remembered and celebrated to this day.