HARTLAND, VT

Peter E. Kilfeather, 87, a longtime resident of Hartland, passed away Friday morning, August 31, at his home in Hartland surrounded by his family.

He was born November 19, 1930 in New Haven, CT the son of Edward and Rose (Flood) Kilfeather. He received his schooling in New Haven and then joined the military where he served in the infantry. He was a veteran of the US Army serving as a Staff Sergeant during the Korean Conflict. Following his honorable discharge in 1952 he returned to Connecticut and married Helen Brooks on May 14, 1954, in New Haven. He was employed at Riley Electrotype as an engraver for twelve years before moving to Hartland, VT in 1968. Peter was then employed by the United States Postal Service in Windsor for twenty-five years until his retirement in 1992. He also bartended at the Windsor American Legion Post and Hartford Elks Lodge. Known as the "Whistling Mailman", Peter enjoyed singing and whistling. Postal patrons knew their mail was close by upon hearing his melodious notes. He also sang professionally in New Haven, CT and through the years was often prompted to perform at the Hartford Elks and in local variety shows. Peter was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Windsor, a Fourth Degree member of the Father Fontaine Council of the Knights of Columbus and Past Grand Knight. He was also a member and Past Commander of the DAV; a member of the Windsor American Legion Post, where he served as chaplain; and a life member of the Windsor Elks Lodge.

Peter's first wife Helen passed away in 1981 and he married Claire Cantara on March 4, 1989. During their twenty-nine years together, Peter and Claire enjoyed traveling the country and frequent trips to Connecticut to see relatives and engage in a bit of black jack and slots. He was fond of socializing with his family and many friends and enjoyed walks with his dog, Sugar.

Peter was predeceased by his parents, first wife Helen and their son, Peter Kilfeather, and nine brothers - two infants, Edward, James, Thomas, John, Francis, Walter and Daniel Kilfeather.

Survivors include, his wife, Claire Kilfeather of Hartland, two daughters, Jan Kilfeather-Mackey and her wife, Robin of Plainfield, NH and Kalleen Kilfeather-Sidler and her husband, Brian of Springfield, VT, three stepsons, James Cantara and his wife, Ruth of Windsor, Bruce Cantara and his wife, Sue of Charlestown, NH and Dana Cantara and his wife, Becky of Springfield, VT, twelve grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held Thursday evening, September 6, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at the Knight Funeral Home in Windsor. Graveside services with military honors will be held Friday, September 7, at 11:00 AM at the St. Francis of Assisi Cemetery in Windsor. The Rev. Charles R. Danielson, Pastor will officiate. A reception for family and friends will follow in Fellowship Hall at the St. Francis of Assisi Church.

In lieu of flowers, Peter requested that you take your loved ones out to dinner.