Russell Gerdin, founder of Heartland Express and donor of $10 million for the College of Business, died Friday. Gerdin was known for his philanthropy, and the Gerdin business building is named in his honor.

Gerdin had been battling cancer, but passed away due to health complications.

He was the president, chairman and CEO of the Heartland Express, Inc. trucking company, which was valued near $500 million in 2010 and is one of the biggest companies in Iowa.

Russ Gerdin and his wife, Ann, graduated from Moorhead University in Minnesota and have frequently donated to Iowa Sate and the University of Iowa.