The life and legacy of Des Moines businessman John Ruan will be celebrated during a memorial at 4 p.m. Thursday in the ballroom of the Des Moines Marriott Downtown, 700 Grand Ave.

Ruan died Saturday at home. He was 96. A private family service is planned.

After building one of the nation’s most notable trucking businesses, Ruan went on to leave his mark on the downtown skyline, building the Ruan Center and the Marriott. He also owned Bankers Trust Co., the state’s largest locally owned bank, and laid the groundwork for the downtown skywalk system.

In 1990, Ruan took on the task of solving world hunger, becoming the corporate sponsor of the World Food Prize.

For a glimpse of his life and achievements, go to www.ruan.com.

Memorial contributions can be made to the World Food Prize Foundation, 1700 Ruan Center, 666 Grand Ave., Des Moines 50309.