Des Moines, IA - Eugene R. "Gene" Campbell, an early member of the CFI Certification Team, passed away Saturday, September 10, 2011 at Taylor Hospice House. He was 79.

His wife Nila said that her husband passed away partly from the continued decline of Alzheimer's, and partly due to a back operation that was absolutely necessary. "Gene was experiencing a lot of pain due to a disc problem and surgery became unavoidable. The operation seemed to be helping, but after a few days, his health started to decline and shortly thereafter, he really didn't know anyone and would not eat".

CFI's Jane Walker said "Gene always enjoyed CFI meetings and Conventions and was sorry when he could no longer attend. Gene was a respected flooring installer who later became an inspector until he could no longer work."

Born December 24, 1931 Eugene Raymond Campbell was the son of Willard and Helen (Whitehead) Campbell. He grew up in Des Moines and graduated from East High School. After graduation, Gene enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served from 1950-1952 in active duty, and 1952-1960 in the reserves. On April 8, 1977 he married Nila Mae Ruhs. They lived in Des Moines, where Gene was self employed as a flooring mechanic.

Survivors include his wife, Nila; children, Monica Campbell and Martin (Julie) Campbell; step-daughters, Joleen (Robert) Karnes and Linda (Scott) Johnson; ten grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and siblings, Willard "Herk" (Mary) Campbell, Rodney (Joan) Campbell, and Mickelynn "Mickey" Campbell. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a step-son, Steven Palmer.

The family has requested that memorials be directed to the American Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, Ill. 60601.