George Edward “Gus” DuFour
George "Gus" DuFour, a beloved husband and father and papa, passed away on June 6, 2023, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories. Born in St. Paul, Minnesota on December 2, 1955, Gus was the son of George DuFour and Shirley Ann Smith. At the age of 10, he moved to Texas and settled in Katy, where he spent the last 50 years of his life.
Gus's journey through life was marked by remarkable experiences and significant connections. He attended Katy High School from 9th through 11th grade and graduated from La Salle High School in 1975. On July 26, 1974, Gus married his beloved wife Kathleen Coursey in Katy, Texas.
Gus had a vibrant and diverse range of interests. He found joy in drag racing, playing drums, and passionately supporting the Green Bay Packers. He was known for his enthusiastic involvement as an Ultimate Dance Dad and unofficial dance judge, always being the loudest Papa in the crowd. Gus loved traveling, camping, savoring chili, milk, and Oreos, and eagerly following the Chicago Fire TV show. He had a playful side, finding humor in TikTok fart videos, and cherished the simple pleasures of back scratches and head rubs.
Blue, red, and Packers Green were Gus's favorite colors, reflecting his unwavering loyalty and pride. His dynamic personality traits endeared him to everyone he met. Gus was known for his loyalty, stubbornness, hard work, bravery, and his ability to bring laughter as a jokester. He had an honest and loving nature, combined with an infectious spirit of dreaming big. With a big-hearted and selfless demeanor, he was always there to support others and fight for what he believed in. Gus had a goofy side and could light up a room with his sense of humor. He was reliable, dependable, and a natural leader who never met a stranger.
Gus's commitment to serving others extended beyond his personal life. He dedicated his time and energy to the Cy-Fair Volunteer Fire Department for 24 years, from 1984 to 2008, embodying his courageous and giving nature. Throughout his career, Gus held various occupations, including working for Katy Butane, Entex, Harris County, and serving as a Katy ISD security guard.
Gus's generosity and love extended beyond his immediate family. He opened his heart and home to children from different countries, hosting Maret from Finland, Peter from Denmark, Nicole from Germany, Lou from France, Max from Denmark, and Philipp from Germany. His selflessness and kindness knew no boundaries.
George "Gus" DuFour will be dearly missed by his wife Kathleen, his family, and the countless lives he touched. His memory will be forever cherished as we celebrate his remarkable life and the legacy of love and joy he leaves behind.
He is survived by his wife, Kathleen DuFour; children, Amy Morales and Ralph of Katy, Mandy DuFour and Scott of Katy, and Allie Mata and Jay of Katy; grandchildren, Baylee DuFour, Connor Morales, Camryn Morales, Breanna Morales, Kaylee Morales, and Savannah Ravelo; brother, Richard DuFour and Mary of Minnesota; sister, Becky Smith and Keith of Katy; sisters-in-law, Joanne DuFour of Katy, Mary Park and Harvey of Bellville, and Jan Coursey of Katy; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Shirley DuFour; in-laws, Robert and Berniece Coursey; siblings, Charles DuFour, John DuFour, and Cheryl Peek; nephew, Scooter Peek; brothers-in-law, Lynn Peek and David Coursey; and sister-in-law, Renee Coursey.
Pallbearers will be Robert Park, David Park, Baby Dave Coursey, George Miller, Craig Arning, David Potts, Corkey Sandman, and Freddy Williams. Honorary pallbearers will be Ralph Morales, Connor Morales, Scott Jenkins, Jay Mata, Harvey Park, and “The Great 8” members.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 15, 2023 at the Schmidt Funeral Home Grand Parkway Chapel, in Katy, where funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, June 16, 2023 with Rev. Gregory Ballard officiating. Interment with Fire Department honors will be at Katy Magnolia Cemetery.
Funeral services held under the direction of
Schmidt Funeral Home
1344 W. Grand Parkway South ~ Katy, Texas 77494 ~ (281) 391-2424