Roman Esteban Kilar

Roman Esteban Kilar, 76, a resident of North Fort Myers, FL since 2007, formerly of North Edison, NJ, passed away Thursday, November 9, 2023, at home in North Fort Myers surrounded by his wife and daughters. He was born November 15, 1946, in Hamburg, Germany to Walter and Helen Kilar, now deceased. He was raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina before moving to New York as a teen and eventually settling in NJ to start his family.

Roman was known for his bright blue eyes, calming nature, and vibrant spirit. In his younger years he was an avid soccer player, having played at the semi-professional level. He was drafted into the Army, serving his country in Vietnam, and was Honorably Discharged. He went on to university, earning master’s degrees in psychology, rehabilitation counseling and social work. He began his career as a Rehabilitation Counselor for Catholic Charities in Newark, NJ and moved on to Marriage and Family Therapy in Perth Amboy, NJ, where he served English, Spanish and Ukrainian communities.

Roman and his wife, Tania, raised 2 daughters, Kathryn and Adriane. He was a devoted father who was always actively involved in his children’s lives, participating, encouraging, and supporting their many activities. The time he spent with his family, Tania, Kathy, Adriane, Fred, Odin, Alice, and Nora, were the happiest moments of his life.

Upon retirement in 2007, Roman and Tania relocated to Heron’s Glen in N. Fort Myers where they became active members of their new community. Roman participated in the Fishing Club, Bocci League, Bowling League, Travel Club, and the golf community. They developed many close friendships and enjoyed spending time with friends and participating in social activities in the Glen.

Roman was of the Ukrainian Catholic faith and attended St Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church in North Port, FL and St Therese in North Fort Myers. Roman was an active member of the Ukrainian American Veterans, Post 40, in North Port, FL serving as the adjutant for several years. He received the Commander’s Award for his dedication and service.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Tatianna Kilar of North Fort Myers; children, Kathryn DeKold of San Diego, CA, and Adriane Shilmover (Fred Shilmover) of Cornelius, NC; as well as 3 grandchildren, Odin DeKold, Alice Shilmover, and Nora Shilmover.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 16, 2024 at St Therese Catholic Church, 20115 N Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers, FL 33903 followed by a Celebration of Life at Heron’s Glen Golf & Country Club, 2250 Herons Glen Blvd, North Fort Myers, FL 33917.

The family wishes to thank all their dear family & friends for their continued love and support.

Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final care.