Ilse Marie Anna Kislov

To all who had the blessing of knowing her, Ilse Marie Anna Kislov was a kind and genuine woman whose faith in God knew no bounds. Her dedication as a loving mother, a loyal confidant and an accomplished musician has left a mark on both friends and family, who will remember her always for her strength and sensitivity. Delivered into the world on October 30, 1911 in Leutkirch, Germany by her father, Dr. Edward Waldraff. Ilse was welcomed into a warm, happy home. Soon after, the Waldraff house would be brimming with love and youthfulness as Ilse's mother Helena would give birth to Herta in 1914 and Wolfram in 1918. All three children were sent to Catholic school to learn of their parents faith. The loving parents that they were, Edward and Helena did all that they could to cultivate their children both intellectually and spiritually. The family would eat meals together, read to one another, and listen to music. Edward would even take the children on medical rounds. Ilse grew into a well rounded, mature young woman who would soon master foreign languages such as English and French, as well as more athletic pursuits such as snow skiing. Under the influence of her music loving mother Helena, Ilse began to show signs of musical talent at the age of 5. She took up what would become one of the most important loves of her life: the piano. By the time she was a teenager Ilse began passing on her skill and her love of music to others by giving piano lessons. Sadly, as it happened for many families in the early part of the 20th century, the winds of war brought tragedy into the Waldraff home. Ilse's brother Wolfram was lost. After the war, the family emigrated to the United States and it was here that Ilse's life as a wife and mother would begin. In 1953, Ilse experienced one of the greatest joys of her life when her her son and first born child Daniel came into the world on Long Island, NY. Two years later, after a relocation to the midwest, daughter Christina was born in Rockford, Ill. Ilse poured every ounce of her love into her children, especially when in 1963 she became a single parent. Like their mother, Daniel and Christina were taught to enjoy the many gifts the world had to offer and would take trips with Ilse around Michigan, to Colorado and to Germany where she could connect her children to their heritage. Ilse was also an outspoken artist and member of community, taking membership in groups such as the Friends of Art, the Frauenthal concert series, Kim Farmer's "Thundering Herd", and the First Congressional Church UCC of Muskegon. The relationships forged both in these groups and at the Church that Ilse piously attended were strong. She often went on trips with her friends to favorite locations such as Florida, the Grand Canyon, Newport, R.I., and Chicago. Ilse loved going for long walks, swimming, reading, and of course the joys of music. She taught piano lessons for over 70 years. Later in life, Ilse remained loyal to her closest friends and family, remaining in contact with her loved ones back in Germany. Despite the many hardships she encountered throughout her lifetime, Ilse learned from each experience to become stronger and to stand taller. Unfortunately, Ilse's health began declining gradually until she required the care of her daughter, Christina. Mrs. Ilse Kislov, age 99, went home to be with her Lord on Wednesday, March 30, 2011. She died peacefuly at home surrounded by her family. A dear loving mother and friend to many, Ilse will be deeply missed. She leaves behind the greatest gift of all - Love. Surviving are her son, Daniel (Carmen) Kislov of Hesperia; daughter, Christina Kislov of North Muskegon; sister, Herta Waldraff of Germany; numerous relatives in Germany; Carmen Kislov's extended family. Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 2nd, 2011 at 1 PM at First Congregational Church - United Church of Christ. A service will be held Saturday, April 2, 2011, 2:00 PM at First Congregational Church - United Church of Christ with Rev. Tim VanderHaar officiating. Interment at Laketon Township Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Hospice or First Congregational Church.