Rose Girone, a remarkable woman who celebrated her 113th birthday on January 13 and was believed to be the oldest living Holocaust survivor, has passed away. The cause of death was old age.
Girone was known for her strong personality and resilience in the face of adversity. Born in Janov, Poland in 1912, she lived through some of the darkest days of history, including the Holocaust. She credits knitting as helping to save her family during this time.
After escaping Nazi Germany with her husband Julius Mannheim, Girone was able to secure his release from a concentration camp by selling him handmade sweaters at an upscale Shanghai store. The money earned allowed them to leave China and eventually settle in New York, where they were reunited with their surviving relatives.
Girone went on to become a successful businesswoman, owning several knitting shops and teaching others the craft she loved. She even sold her designs to publications like Vogue, earning her recognition for her talent.
Throughout her life, Girone remained outspoken about her experiences during the war, providing testimonies to various organizations. Her daughter Reha Bennicasa described her as “a terrific lady” who was always willing to help others and never lost hope in the face of adversity.
Girone’s legacy extends beyond her own remarkable story, inspiring a generation of young people with her message of resilience and purpose. She will be deeply missed by those who knew her, but her impact on their lives will continue to be felt for years to come.
Source: https://www.jta.org/2025/02/24/ny/knitting-legend-rose-girone-worlds-oldest-holocaust-survivor-dies-at-113