---- — BOULDER, Colo. — Ruthanne Gartland, 69, of Boulder, Colo., died peacefully from breast cancer on July 9, 2011. Born in Flint, she was the eldest of eight children of parents, Catherine and Leo Gartland. Ruthanne graduated from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wis., then joined the Peace Corps. She briefly taught high school English and earned a law degree from the University of Detroit. She spent her law career in public service at the city, county and state levels in Michigan and Colorado, and was one of the first female public defenders in Denver. At 50 she traveled around the world by herself. She also enjoyed many outdoor activities and was very involved with co-housing communities in Durango and Boulder. She was a spiritual seeker and an extraordinary person. She is survived by brothers, Tom Gartland (Karen), of Traverse City, Mike Gartland (Lois) and David Gartland (Ronda), both of East Tawas; sister, Jane White (Kevin), of Durham, N.C.; and many devoted friends, nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and nephews, and cousins.She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Jim and Bob; and sister, Mary Pat.Donations may be made to Munson Hospice in Traverse City.Arrangements have been made with Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.