Steven McGregor "Red" Dunn

Steven McGregor "Red" Dunn, 71, of Park Ridge, IL, passed away on December 6, 2025, after a short, but courageous battle with brain cancer.

Born in 1954 to James, of the Chicago Fire Department, and Valerie, née Bruce, Dunn, Red built a life defined by service, craftsmanship, and deep devotion to his family and community. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Virginia "Ginny", née Erickson; his daughter Katie (Chris) and son Alex, Ret. Des Plaines Police, (Daisy); and his cherished grandchildren Evelyn, Isabel, Alexander, and William, who knew him lovingly as "Baba". He is also survived by his older brother, Jim (Ina). He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Sue, and his brother, Tom.

Red proudly served as a Fireman for the Village of Skokie for 27 years, working in many capacities including Engineer (Squad 18), Paramedic, and Cook. He was recognized with a life-saving award in 1992 for his heroic actions saving multiple lives at the Bank of Lincolnwood high-rise fire, including rescuing a civilian through a window as part of Truck Co. 16. In retirement, he remained a proud member of IAFF Local 3033.

Red was a gifted and creative craftsman. His scratch-built brass models earned national and international honors, each piece reflecting countless hours of patience, precision, and artistic talent. His proudest modeling achievement was a model of his father's WWII ship, the USS Rixey. Red's finish carpentry and handyman work shaped the homes and businesses of many families and friends who knew his work was unmatched. A lifelong car enthusiast, he fixed, tuned, and painted many cars. He shared his talents generously, and his creativity and precision inspired those who knew him – he was always willing to lend his time, tools, and enthusiasm to anyone who needed it.

Steven came into the world with a big spirit and an even bigger heart, traits that never faded. Larger than life in every sense, he carried a presence that filled the room, a voice that traveled, and a humor you couldn't forget. He will be remembered for his heart of service, sense of humor, remarkable skill, and the countless ways he made life better for the people around him.

A visitation to honor and remember Steven will be held Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Ryan-Parke Funeral Home, 120 S Northwest Highway, Park Ridge, IL 60068. Funeral service to be held Friday, December 12, at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, 320 S Washington Street, Park Ridge, IL 60068 with internment to follow at Town of Maine Cemetery, Park Ridge, IL. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Skokie Firefighter's Benevolent Fund, 8157 Central Park, Skokie, IL 60076.

Funeral information please call (847) 823-1171 or visit ryan-parke.com