BARRE- Peter "Pete" W. Aylward, 79, of Barre, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 5, 2026, at the McClure Miller Respite House in Colchester.

Born on October 13, 1946, he was the son of Milton Aylward and Evelyn (Griffith) Fields. Pete grew up in Waterbury, where he attended local schools and graduated from Waterbury High School in 1964. Following high school, his passion for food led him to the Culinary Institute of America, then located in New Haven, Connecticut.

In 1964, Pete married his first wife, Sylvia (Wing) Aylward, and together they raised their two children in Waterbury. In 2002, he married Cathryn Leete, and they made their home together on Woodbury Lake.

Pete was a true entrepreneur and a man of many talents. He began his career showcasing his culinary skills at the Trapp Family Lodge and at Basin Harbor. He later worked for Thurston's Paint before purchasing the Colby Mansion Home for the Aged. Alongside his brother Richard, Pete built and operated Crossroads Beverage until its sale. Over the years, he owned and partnered in several successful local businesses, including Aylward Upholstery, the Blush Hill House Bed and Breakfast, and the Locomotion Fitness Center. He ultimately became a self-employed painter, a trade he proudly continued until his retirement.

Deeply committed to his community, Pete was a member of the Waterbury Jaycees, a member of the Waterbury Rotary, and a member of the Waterbury Fish and Game Club. He was also honored to be one of the original pioneers of the Waterbury Ambulance Service. In his spare time, Pete loved cooking for those he cared about, skiing, camping, and traveling to Florida.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Cathryn of Barre; his daughter, Christine Quinn and her husband James of Waterbury; his son, Brian Aylward of Rutland; and his stepchildren, Carrie O’Connor and her husband Jack, and Shawn Pecue. He is also survived by 3 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, 4 step-grandchildren, and 2 step-great-grandchildren. Pete was predeceased by his parents, Milton Aylward and Evelyn Fields; his brother, Richard Aylward; and his beloved niece and nephews.

Per Pete’s wishes, a private service will be held at the family’s convenience. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Waterbury Fish and Game Club in Waterbury, VT.