Shawnee, Kan. - Ernest Duane Baker, CFI's first hard surface installer, died July 1, 2011, at his home here. He was 76.

Baker was instrumental in the early years of CFI in establishing the Midwest CFI Chapter in Kansas City, MO. With his wife, Carmen they volunteered untold hours of time in coordinating the chapter events and working with the CFI Convention. Carmen later became employed by CFI with their daughter, Judy who was born with Down’s Syndrome.

Judy is now living with her sister, Duanette in Oskaloosa, KS.

"Duane had been ill for many years and it was always hoped that he would be able to attend another CFI Convention, but that was never possible", said Jane Walker.

Duane Baker was born Sept. 29, 1934, in Davis City, Iowa, to Helen Boeger and Orvil Baker.

The family moved to Greybull where Duane attended Greybull High School through his sophomore year. They then moved to Davis City where he graduated from Leon High School.

In 1954 he married Retha Elmore in Davis City. They had three daughters and moved to Wyoming, later desolving the marriage.

While living in Cody he drove a truck for Coca-Cola. and later worked at a downtown Texaco gas station. He also served on the Cody Volunteer Fire Department.

After moving to Kansas and marrying Carmen Haase in 1964 the couple had two daughters. Duane Baker owned and operated a flooring company in Shawnee. After retiring he and his wife farmed an acreage they purchased in southern Missouri.

He is survived by brother Richard (Loreva) Baker of Coweta, Okla., sisters Susalea McElhinny of Worland, Patty Giles of Powell, Mary (Bob) Russell of Basin, Darlene Woolhiser of Cassville, Mo., and Orvilla (Dennis) McDaniel of Spring, Texas, daughters Debra (Edward) Ramer of Far West, Utah, Dulinda (Gordon) Rudaitis of Kansas City, Mo., Bernie Atagi of Independence, Mo., Judith Baker of Shawnee, and Duanette Baker of Oskaloosa, Kan., 16 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Duane was preceded in death by his parents, step- father, wife Carmen and sisters JoAnn, Frances and Sharon.

Per Duane's request there was no service or memorial.