It is in the peace of the Lord that, on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at Hull Hospital, the day after celebrating his 86th birthday, Monsignor Jean-Charles Dufour, Honorary Prelate of His Holiness, closed his eyes to the light of this world to open them more fully to the light beyond.
Born on February 21, 1940, in Ottawa, Ontario, he was the son of the late Gustave Dufour and the late Hélène Dion. He is mourned by his many brothers and sisters: Sister Jeanne d’Arc, Marie-Paule, Marie-Laure, Béatrice, Sister Bernadette, Armand, Louise, Gabrielle, and Simon, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
After completing his classical studies at the Petit Séminaire d’Ottawa (1953–1962), he continued his formation at the Grand Séminaire d’Ottawa and Saint Paul University. He was ordained to the priesthood on June 12, 1966, at Sainte-Cécile Church in Masham by Bishop Paul-Émile Charbonneau, first Bishop of the Diocese of Hull.
Throughout his ministry in the Archdiocese of Gatineau, he served the People of God with dedication and generosity. He was associate pastor at Notre-Dame-du-Très-Saint-Rosaire (Pointe-Gatineau) and at Notre-Dame-de-Lorette (Hull), diocesan chaplain to Scouts and Cubs, and chaplain in several secondary schools.
He also served as pastor at Notre-Dame-de-Lorette, at Saint Joseph Co-Cathedral, at Notre-Dame-de-la-Guadeloupe, at Notre-Dame de l’Eau Vive, and at Saint-Richard. As Episcopal Vicar for the Wrightville and Aylmer pastoral zones, he was a member of the Presbyteral Council, diocesan consultor, chaplain to the Daughters of Isabella, and, until his death, chaplain to the Servantes de Jésus-Marie.
His spiritual life and priestly ministry, deeply rooted in the Gospel message and in a personal relationship with Christ, began to flourish in his youth. He once wrote: “When I was young, I read the Bible. The goodness of Jesus deeply touched me, and I wished to love as He loves.” A simple yet radiant kindness emanated from him, reflecting the depth of his faith and the sincerity of his love for Christ and for others.
A patient and inspired craftsman, Monsignor Jean-Charles skillfully shaped wood, creating, among other works, beautiful Nativity scenes. With equal artistry, he also shaped hearts through the strength and depth of his preaching of the Word.
The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, March 6, at 11:00 a.m., at Notre-Dame-de-la-Guadeloupe Church.
May the Lord, rich in mercy, welcome His servant Jean-Charles into the joy and peace of His Kingdom. To his family, his loved ones, and to all who knew and loved him, we offer our heartfelt condolences.
Rodhain Kasuba-Malu
Vicar General