Peter Filim, a lifelong Buffalonian with a deep passion for local history, architecture, and historic preservation, dedicated much of his life to sharing the rich history of Buffalo with others. Through his work as a local historian, tour coordinator, and preservation advocate, Peter helped bring the stories and landmarks of his beloved city to life for generations of residents and visitors.

Peter pursued his studies at Holy Apostles College, where he studied Philosophy and Religious Studies from 1973 to 1975, followed by graduate studies in Theology at Christ the King Seminary from 1976 to 1978. His education reflected his appreciation for history, faith, and the deeper stories that shape our understanding of the world around us.

From 1981 to 2026, Peter served as a local historian for the Buffalo Historical Society and as a personal tour coordinator. A native Buffalonian, he spent more than 30 years immersed in local history and architectural preservation. He was a founding member of the Preservation Coalition of Erie County and served as a Life Trustee of Preservation Buffalo Niagara. Peter also participated in numerous programs and exhibits at the Buffalo History Museum and served on the Landmark and Preservation Board of Buffalo. His enthusiasm for sharing knowledge continued through his work as a docent and instructor of docents for two organizations. Always eager to share his expertise, Peter took pride in designing tours tailored to the interests of those he guided, ensuring that each experience offered a meaningful connection to Buffalo's past.

Peter's dedication to his community was recognized through several distinguished honors and appointments. In March 1983, he was appointed by Buffalo Mayor James D. Griffin to serve as a representative of the Fillmore Councilmatic District on the city's Landmark and Preservation Board, serving through June 1985. This appointment reflected his commitment to protecting the historic character and architectural heritage of Buffalo.

Peter also devoted many years to helping others resolve disputes fairly and constructively. In July 1989, he was recognized as a Senior Arbitrator on the National Panel of Consumer Arbitrators by the Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc. This distinction recognized the quality of his arbitration work and his demonstrated ability to render sound decisions. In January 1995, the Unified Court System of the State of New York honored Peter with an award for Dedicated Service, recognizing his fifteen years of service as a mediator and arbitrator for the Community Dispute Resolutions Program of the Better Business Bureau Foundation of Western New York, Inc. These honors reflected his commitment to fairness, thoughtful judgment, and service to others.

In addition to his historical and preservation work, Peter served as a consultant and Account Clerk for the Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority from 2007 to 2011.

Peter will be remembered for his dedication to preserving the history and architectural heritage of Buffalo, as well as his commitment to educating others about the city he called home. His years of service helped preserve the stories, places, and traditions that make Buffalo unique, leaving a lasting contribution to the community he so deeply cherished.

Loving son of the late Dorothy (nee Miller) and Bronislaus Filim; dear brother of the late Michael D. Filim; fond uncle of Michael E. Filim, Lori (Dennis) Mochol, Alicia Killian, Jennifer Enderton, and Victoria Bardak; great-uncle of Hayley Filim, Zachery Mochol, and Gabriel Mochol; and brother-in-law of the late Kathy (Charles Lambert) Filim. Peter is also survived by many cousins.

Family will be present on Monday, October 12, from 2–4 PM and 6–8 PM at the PIETSZAK FUNERAL HOME, 2400 William Street, Cheektowaga, NY 14206.

Relatives and friends are invited to assemble for a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Stanislaus Parish, 389 Peckham Street, Buffalo, on Tuesday, October 13, at 10 AM. Please assemble at church.

Burial will take place at Forest Lawn Cemetery, Buffalo, NY.

The family invites you to leave a message in Peter's Guest Book or share a photograph in his Online Photo Album. Your memories, stories, and photographs will be treasured by his family and loved ones for years to come, serving as a lasting tribute to Peter's life and the meaningful contributions he made to the community he loved.