Ronald "Ron" Thomas Schlacht, age 91, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2026, surrounded by family. He was born on October 31, 1934, the second of three boys, to Otto and Margaret.

Ron grew up in Allen Park, MI, with a big family filled with his brothers and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He served in the armed forces from 1954 -1956, stationed in San Diego, CA. He worked various positions at the Ford Motor Company for 30 years. It was at Ford where Ron met Ilene (nee. Bunetta), his wife of 57 years. Ilene was the love of his life and he knew he wanted to marry her within a few months of dating. He always wanted her by his side and at the center of their love was joy, humor, and admiration for each other.

Ron is remembered as an avid reader of books, for his quick wit, and his devotion and generosity to family and friends. He never met a stranger and loved to chat. Their home was always a gathering place for family holidays, birthdays, and other celebrations, with friends of the family stopping in to enjoy the merriment. He had forever friends from all walks of life - childhood, Ford, and from every neighborhood they lived, adding to his family. He was never bored - he didn’t have to be doing anything. Ron was happy sitting in peace, watching people and dogs walk by, often with dogs making a daily visit. He will be forever missed by all.

He is survived by Ilene, his daughter, Darla Higgins (Ted), his sons, Phillip (Doreen) and Jay (Alisa); five grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael, and brothers, Richard and Robert.

A visitation will be held on October 10, 2026 from 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM with a memorial service to follow at 2:30 PM at Manns Family Funeral Home, located at 17000 Middlebelt Road, Livonia, MI 48154