Ludger Deller

Ludger Deller, known lovingly as Lu, Lulu, and Tilou, was born on April 21, 1972, in Chicago, Illinois, the oldest child of Fougere and Fernande Deller. From the very beginning, Lu had a gentle heart, an affectionate nature, and a playful spirit that people were drawn to. He grew up in Evanston, Illinois, and graduated from Evanston Township High School, where he built lifelong friendships and memories full of laughter and good times.

Lu spent much of his adult life working in service to others, something that came naturally to him. He worked for many years as a chauffeur and limousine driver in Chicago, a job he truly loved. Lu took pride in knowing every street, shortcut, and corner of the city, and he enjoyed sharing stories and conversation along the way. More often than not, passengers got more than a ride, they made a new friend. Lu had a rare gift for making people feel comfortable and welcome, and the people of Chicago loved him for it. He later earned his commercial driver’s license through 160 Driving Academy and became a truck driver, a role that fit his love for the road and his adventurous spirit, allowing him to see the country while doing what he enjoyed most.

Lu lived life with joy, humor, and a little bit of mischief. He was a loyal Bears and Cubs fan, loved sports cars, and had a passion for photography. He also had a sweet tooth that knew no limits. Lu proudly claimed the title of “cookie monster,” especially when it came to Little Debbie oatmeal cream pies, the wrappers everywhere told the story. He never missed the chance to be the first one to sneak a bite of his mom’s rum cake fresh out of the oven, and he loved slipping his favorite childhood candies to his nieces, always with a smile and a wink.

Above all else, Lu loved people. He loved to laugh, joke, and enjoy the small moments that made life feel full. Wherever he went, he brought warmth, affection, and a lighthearted energy that made everything better.

Lu was preceded in death by his father, Fougere Deller.

He leaves behind a family who loved him deeply and will miss him always: his mother, Fernande Chevalier Deller; his daughters, Whitney Marie (Deshawn) White and Gabrielle Drew Deller, who were the pride and joy of his life; his wife of five years, Karon Guyton; his sisters, Nancy Deller and Tanya Rose (Brandon) Keith; his bonus children, Bria Holloway, Dylan Sumaya, and Dustin Sumaya; along with many aunts, uncles, nieces, a nephew, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

Lu will be remembered for his big heart, his affectionate nature, and his joyful, silly spirit. He had a laugh you could recognize anywhere and a way of making people feel instantly at ease. He made moments brighter simply by being there. Though he will be deeply missed, Lu lives on in the laughter he shared, the love he gave, and the countless lives he touched.

His services will be held at St. Marys Church, 1012 Lake St, Evanston, IL, on January 31, 2026.

11 am - Viewing

12:30 pm Memorial & Mass