Kilrea began his hockey career as a player in the Ontario Hockey Association (OHA). He was a member of the OHA's junior league, where he played for the Ottawa 67's. He was a standout player, and was named to the OHA's First All-Star Team in 1957. He was also a member of the Canadian National Team in 1958 and 1959.
Kilrea then moved into coaching, and he had a long and successful career in the OHA. He coached the Ottawa 67's from 1974 to 1984, and he led the team to five Memorial Cup championships. He was also the head coach of the Canadian National Team in 1983 and 1984.
Kilrea then moved into the role of general manager, and he was the general manager of the Ottawa 67's from 1984 to 1998. During his tenure as general manager, the team won three more Memorial Cup championships.
Kilrea was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003, and he was also inducted into the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame in 2006. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches and general managers in the history of hockey.
Kilrea's career in hockey was long and successful, and he is remembered as one of the greatest figures in the sport. He was a great player, coach, and general manager, and his legacy will live on for many years to come.
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