Duke J. Durfee, one of the country’s first John Deere construction equipment dealers, passed away March 9, 2012. He was 88.

The former John Deere Dealers Association president opened his dealership, the Duke Durfee Company, in 1962 in North Mankato, Minn. Well respected in the industry, Durfee was involved in a number of industry associations including the AED, Builders Exchange and Minnesota LICA.

He was the territory representative for Caterpillar Tractor in south and east Africa from 1956 to 1960.

Durfee retired in 1992 after selling his business to the RDO Company. He is survived by his wife, Shirley, sons, Duke and Brian, and daughter, Barbara. Condolences may be sent to Shirley Durfee at 4121 Sawgrass Point #104, Bonita Springs, FL 34134.

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