Ilene, this year’s Daughters of Macomb Grand DOM, is a lifelong resident of Macomb County, living primarily in Mount Clemens, where Miller Brothers Ice Cream was often a stable dessert in the Schlaff household. She resided in her home in Mount Clemens for 55 years and remembers a time when downtown Mount Clemens offered everything needed within walking distance from Dickinson Place just “over the bridge”: Prieh’s Department Store, Malbin’s Furniture, Rae’s Shoe Store, Kresge’s Dime Store, the Campus shop, the Children’s Shop, just to name a few. Ilene was a graduate ofMt. Clemens High School class of 1949. A time when many great things were happening in Mt. Clemens for both young and old. Early in her career she was a seamstress for Anton’s Menswear and made drapes for many of the grand homes in Mt. Clemens. She soon created a reputation for her fine craftsmanship and many sought her creative talents.
She married John Henry Schlaff in 1951 . They started their married life initially in Chesterfield, where the Schlaff Creamery was the family business. Ilene became mom to Michael, Christopher, Ann Marie, and later to Lisa and Gretchen after they moved to Mount Clemens in 1956. She currently has eleven grandchildren (Michelle, Meghann, Kristen, Melissa, Bryan, Lauren, Christopher, Cameron, Kyle, Ryan and Jason) and two great grandchildren (Madison and Easton), all of whom she absolutely adores. If you asked her, her one request would always be to spend more time with her family. Ilene, fondly referred to as “Pokey” Schlaff has always been a kind, caring neighbor and dedicated friend to all that know her. She has always been that person to give freely of her time and talents, ever involved over the years in school and church functions activities, baking, crafting, and donating in whatever capacity able. Formerly a member and dosant for the historic Crocker House and Macomb Historical Society. She was actively involved in many projects through Mt. Clemens . One display of her creative talent was decorating the Crocker House for the Holiday tours. Ilene participated in the success of the Historic Homes Tour, and birth of the Crocker House Tea and Garden Parties. She is not only the cornerstone of her family, but also to Mount Clemens and the families that have chosen to live and raise families here over the years. Most people know “Pokey” and know her to be a sweet and caring lady, with a kind and gentle heart. Congratulations to this year’s Grand DOM, Ilene “Pokey” Schlaff.
