Joann Schlakman

Joann McHugh Schlakman, 80, a woman of beauty, substance, wit, creativity, warmth and integrity, of both bold flair and gentle nuance, died at Baptist Hospital of Miami on March 27th, 2012, after battling various health issues. She was born in Worcester, MA, on July 23rd, 1931. A private remembrance was held at water’s edge on Biscayne Bay at Kennedy Park in Coconut Grove, FL, on the evening of April 12th. She was the daughter of Marguerite Ashley and Thomas Joseph McHugh, sister of Marguerite "Peggy" Cripps and Robert Francis Bell, all of whom predeceased her. She was mother of Mark R. Schlakman, a resident of Tallahassee, and Holly L. Schlakman, a resident of Miami, and was an aunt and great aunt. Joann graduated from Mt. Holyoke College in South Hadley, MA. She was a woman ahead of her time. After growing up in MA, she briefly toured as a professional dancer and then segued her interest in health and wellness into a career as an executive with Slenderella Int'l, when it was unusual for women to serve in such management capacities. Steeped in Catholic family tradition – her Uncle a Bishop and Aunt a Mother Superior, she followed her heart and married Chuck Schlakman in 1958, a man of Jewish faith. They soon relocated to South Florida and subsequently to the Bahamas for several years before returning to Florida to reside in Coral Gables. They were involved in the hotel and entertainment industry. Over the years, Joann served as president of both the PTA and Sisterhood, and dedicated time to fundraising to support various causes. She believed all should be treated with dignity and respect. Joann and Chuck were divorced during the mid-80s; afterward, she returned to Catholicism. She resumed her career for a period of time and, among other endeavors, served in management capacity at Hotel Mutiny in Coconut Grove, FL. While her presence will be very much missed her influence and memory will continue to shape the lives of her children and those fortunate to have known her. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Friends Forever Rescue.