By Dave Fidlin
Correspondent
It was an evening of filled with emotions that ranged from tear-shedding sadness to utter jubilation.
After a series of fundraisers and approvals from the Whitewater Common Council, the Treyton Kilar Field of Dreams is moving forward. A special groundbreaking ceremony took place Aug. 16, and several hundred residents showed up as a sign of support for the venture.
The Field of Dreams, to be located within Starin Park, is a tribute to Treyton, who died nearly three years ago at age 6 after a car crash that was initiated by a drunken driver. The spirited, blond-haired boy was an avid fan of the Milwaukee Brewers during his short life.
A number of people, including the Kilar family, spoke of the project during the ceremony. Several city officials were on hand and discussed their pleasure in supporting the project.
Treyton’s mother, Mary Kilar, spoke on behalf of the family at the event. Her emotional words made it difficult for the audience to maintain dry eyes.
Mary said grappling with the loss of Treyton “never gets easier,” but she expressed gratitude to people – including Whitewater residents – for their overwhelming show of support during a trial in life few will truly understand.
“Even though our faith is strong … our broken hearts continue to long for him,” Mary said of Treyton. “This is a small community, but it has a big heart.”
Since Treyton’s untimely passing, the Kilar family has rallied behind the Field of Dreams project, touting it as a venue that can bring the community together in one setting.
“We are called to leave this world in a better place than what it was when we found it,” Mary said.
In her brief discussion before the crowd, Mary thanked the many people and organizations who provided financial support toward the Field of Dreams. From proceeds from children’s lemonade stands to corporate sponsors such as the Brewers Community Foundation, Mary said she and her family have been touched by the unwavering support.
In addition to the monetary contributions, Mary said peoples’ words and actions have blessed her family abundantly.
“It’s the hug, it’s the smile, and it’s the card,” she said. “You have brought us to this moment.”
`City Administrator Cameron Clapper said he and other Whitewater officials have been honored to guide the project along.
“What’s been most remarkable about this project is all of you,” Clapper said to attendees. “You’ve taken a tragic event that many of us will never fully comprehend, and you’ve created a place where dreams can come true.”
A number of local organizations, including the Whitewater Community Foundation, have supported the Field of Dreams project since its inception.
“We are delighted that we could be a part of this historic event,” said the Rev. Carroll Olm, a board member with the foundation.
Earlier this month, the Common Council approved plans for the actual construction of the Field of Dreams. Donated dollars will fund the bulk of the $473,534 construction contract that has been issued to Monroe-based E and N Hughes Company.
Fundraising efforts will continue on two additional components – lighting and a concession stand – for the Field of Dreams. Combined, the items will cost an estimated $270,000.
