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Plainville Police Lt Remembered For His Dedication To Community: Army Vet Was 'Amazing Human'

A Connecticut community is mourning the loss of a dedicated police officer who spent his life working to improve his world and the lives of the people in it. 

Plainville Police Lt. John Quilter in 2023

Plainville Police Lt. John Quilter in 2023

Photo Credit: Facebook/John Quilter

Plainville Police Lt. John Quilter died Saturday, Jan. 18, surrounded by his family. The department did not disclose the cause of death.

The 49-year-old Bristol native married his high school sweetheart, Missy, and they had three children. John recently became a grandfather for the first time, according to his obituary

John Quilter joined the Plainville Police Department in 1999 after serving in the U.S. Army. His career in Connecticut was marked by selflessness and a commitment to improving the community.

The department called him “truly one of the best” when announcing his untimely passing.

Friends and colleagues shared heartfelt tributes on a memorial wall, highlighting his compassion and kindness.

“John was an amazing human being who radiated warmth and kindness,” Craig Rodner posted. “He was the best of the best. Thinking of him and sending love to his truly wonderful family.”

John’s dedication to his community extended far beyond his police work.

“He was a pillar of strength and selflessness, who instilled values of respect and kindness not only to his family but also to the greater community,” his obituary said. “His active involvement with the Plainville Rotary Club and his role as a youth sports coach—from Colts football to Little League and soccer to running the PAL basketball league for the Plainville Police Association—reflected his deep commitment to the development and well-being of young people.”

John Quilter worked as a realtor in his free time and cherished his vacation home in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, which he called his “happy place.” He'd hoped to retire there someday, his family said. 

Services to Honor Lt. John Quilter

A visitation for Quilter's family is scheduled for 4 until 8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 21, at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville. 

A celebration of life is set for Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. at the Plainville High School auditorium, 47 Robert Holcomb Way. Internment with military honors will follow at Forestville Cemetery.

For more information on the service or to leave a message to the family, visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com

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