Ilene Messler

Ilene Louise Messler, beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother and great grandmother, passed away January 21st, in Lake Wales, Florida.

Ilene was born on July 10, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan to Margaret and Roderick Sanders. They preceded her in death, as did her husband Alfred E. Messler and siblings Darlene Murphy, Bill Sanders and Rod Sanders.

Ilene married Al on June 28, 1962. After Al’s passing in 2005, Ilene met Bill Mascaro at their favorite Elks Lodge. Their friendship blossomed and they spent 17 wonderful years together, eventually relocating to Florida. They enjoyed golfing, art shows, traveling, visiting with family and friends, playing cards, dancing and living out retirement in the way we all dream.

She is survived by Bill, along with two daughters Mickie Recker (Jeff), Kim Pond, and son Joe Messler (Kristin), as well as stepson Billy Mascaro (Kitty), stepdaughter Tonya Rich-Cummins (Steve). Ilene also leaves behind grandchildren Chelsa (Ron), Kole (Dallas), Kailyn (Shelby), Jayce, Kelly, Joey, Jake, Matt, Kierstin, Makenna, Ethan, Owen and Ella and 11 great grandchildren all of whom she loved dearly. She also shared a special relationship with two great-nieces, Ella and Delaney.

There will be 2 celebrations of Ilene’s life. Saddlebag Lake Resort (Clubhouse) Sunday, February 15th from 1-3pm in Florida and Flatrock Elk’s Lodge Saturday, February 21st from 1-4pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations are being accepted in her memory at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.