Mr. Stephen L. Graffouliere

Stephen Graffouliere, 69, of Galesburg, IL, passed away on Friday, August 22, 2025.

Stephen was born on November 8, 1955, in Galesburg, IL, to Ronald and Betty Graffouliere. He grew up in Galesburg, where he attended Galesburg High School and was active in football, wrestling, and swimming. During his youth, he also worked as a lifeguard, a role that reflected his lifelong love for the water—a passion that would later lead him to move to Florida, where he enjoyed the coast and its outdoor lifestyle

.Stephen is survived by his son, Steven Graffouliere (Lisa) of Largo, FL; his daughter, Nicole Mones (Jeff) of St. Petersburg, FL; his beloved grandchildren, Dylan, Cayden, Devyn, Cooper, Primrose, and Peyton; and his former spouse, Joyce Graffouliere. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald and Betty Graffouliere.

Stephen was an avid football fan and rarely missed Monday Night Football. One of his all-time favorite players was William “The Fridge” Perry, whose larger-than-life personality and passion for the game matched Stephen’s own enthusiasm for sports.

Beyond his love for sports, Stephen was known for his playful spirit and adventurous side. He loved fishing with a cast net to catch mullet and would jokingly call himself “Death from Above” whenever he made a good throw. Another favorite tradition was giving “double cobras” — a silly, fun gesture he shared often with his loved ones, leaving those around him laughing and smiling.

Stephen will be remembered for his humor, his love of family, his passion for the water and sports, and the countless memories he created through his unique traditions and joyful presence.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Home and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel. A Memorial Service will follow at 2:00 p.m.at the chapel. Chaplain Jordan Knight will officiate. Inurnment will take place at a later date. Memorials may be made to the family. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com

Services
Visitation
Wednesday
August 27, 2025
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Hinchliff-Pearson-West, Inc.
1070 West Fremont St.
Galesburg, IL 61401

Celebration of Life Service
Wednesday
August 27, 2025
2:00 PM
Hinchliff-Pearson-West, Inc.
1070 West Fremont St.
Galesburg, IL 61401

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