Stephen M. Dufour of Peru, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 62 with his family by his side at OSF St. Paul Medical Center, Mendota.

Funeral services will be Thursday, April 4, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church, Mendota with Rev. Elise Rothfusz officiating. Burial will be at Restland Cemetery, Mendota. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral in the church. Merritt Funeral Home, Mendota is assisting the family.

Stephen was born July 27, 1961 in Yokohama, Japan, the son of Betty (Zinke) Dufour and the late Michael Dufour.

Stephen attended Lighted Way Developmental Center for 14 years and then graduated from LaSalle-Peru High School in 1982. Stephen was an avid Chicago Cubs fan, decked out in Cubs clothing everyday. He worked at Horizon House after High School and was later employed by McDonalds in Peru for over 25 years, where he enjoyed visiting with his customers. His job meant everything to him. Stephen enjoyed bowling and spending time at the bowling alley with his friends. Stephen had a huge heart and truly enjoyed his time with family and friends whom he loved deeply.

Stephen is the beloved son of Betty Dufour and beloved brother of Kathleen (Dufour) Mueller and brother in law of Jay Mueller. He was the cherished uncle of Olivia Mueller-Boucek (AJ) of LaSalle and Austin (Madison Ukrin) Mueller of Westmont.

He was preceded in death by his father Michael Dufour, grandparents Albert Zinke, Caroline and Harry Gower, Watson and Vauna Dufour and aunts and uncles.

Memorials may be directed to Horizon House of Peru.