A Classic American Love Story

Print More

The Suffield Observer introduces our Valentine couple for 2025. Peter Kulas grew up in Suffield, Fran in Windsor Locks. At the time they met, both were working for Kaman Aerospace, Peter as a model maker and wood rotor blade maker and Fran in the corporate office. Peter recalls that he had noticed Fran, but being a true gentleman, he had not made any overtures in the workplace. The two met in 1951 when Fran and her friend were looking for a ride to a basketball game, and Peter’s friend suggested that they help the girls out. Peter arrived in his 1948 cream-colored convertible–who could resist that mode of transportation?–and a romance quickly developed.

Fran and Peter Kulas

Peter and Fran were married in September of 1953 at St. Mary’s Church in Windsor Locks. Their lives from that point forward were full of change: first a Navy stint for Peter, with transfers from base to base, and allowing him the opportunity to play on the Navy baseball team–quite a big deal at that time, but Peter had already established himself as a semi-pro player and found the experience great fun. When Peter retired, he was Director of Manufacturing Engineering.

In 1957, Peter and various members of his family built a house for the young couple in Suffield, a house where they raised their three children, Ken, David and Kathy. The Kulases now have six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, with another on the way–quite a family!

Along the way, Peter coached Little League teams for each of his sons and Fran helped with all the activities of the team expected of moms; both later volunteered with Meals on Wheels. As an aside, Peter’s father Bruno built the first baseball field in Suffield, so Peter must have had full support in the baseball world as a boy!

After moving back to Suffield from 10 years in Clinton, Peter and Fran bought a house on Marbern Drive, where they lived until they decided to downsize for a move to Parkview Glen. Residents of Parkview Glen see the couple often, always pleasant and friendly, always ready with a wave or a cheerful greeting. Peter in particular, having worked in an engineering environment, is skillful with all kinds of technical issues and is always glad to explain and advise when his neighbors need help. The world needs more people like Peter and Fran Kulas!

Comments are closed.