Rose Girone, revered as the world’s oldest Holocaust survivor, passed away at 113 years of age. Her life is a tapestry of resilience, courage, and remarkable contributions spanning continents. The story of her journey from war-torn Poland to the vibrant streets of New York City invites reflection on a legacy of strength and survival against overwhelming odds.
Surviving the Holocaust
Born in Poland on January 13, 1912, Rose Girone witnessed the dark days of World War II. Her husband, Julius Mannheim, was detained at Buchenwald concentration camp. Following his release, the family fled to Shanghai, arriving after a daunting journey by sea. They lived in ghetto conditions under Japanese rule, where Girone started a small knitting business to support her family.
Rose Girone, a Holocaust survivor and knitting legend, passed away at 113-years-old. “We have an awful lot of people who thought that she was everybody’s Oma,” said Bennicasa, Daughter of Rose Girone.https://t.co/MA4GWan3vt
— Foundation to Combat Antisemitism (@FCASorg) February 25, 2025
Girone’s move to New York in 1947 marked a new chapter. After divorcing her husband, she navigated life as a single mother, dedicating herself to her knitting stores. Her establishments became more than shops; they were centers for community and resilience. Girone continued working until age 102, a testament to her indefatigable spirit.
A Legacy of Fortitude and Education
Girone’s life, characterized by her cheerful disposition and contributions, resonated with her daughter, Reha Bennicasa, and granddaughter, Gina Bennicasa. Girone’s example extends beyond her family, impacting countless others. Her story stands as a powerful testament to the indomitable human will.
Condolences: Rose Girone, the oldest Holocaust survivor, has passed away. She celebrated her 113th birthday last month, making her the oldest known Holocaust survivor in the world.
Rose was born in Janov, Poland, on January 13, 1912. She married Julius Manheim in 1938 and was… pic.twitter.com/uFONLLzpnL
— Humans of Judaism (@HumansOfJudaism) February 28, 2025
“She was a strong lady, resilient. She was very level-headed, very commonsensical. There was nothing I couldn’t bring to her to help me solve — ever — from childhood on.” – Ms. Bennicasa.
Greg Schneider, from the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany, highlighted the urgency of preserving the lessons of the Holocaust. In today’s world, these lessons are increasingly critical. Girone’s passing underscores our responsibility to remember and educate future generations.
A Life Well Lived and Remembered
Girone’s contribution did not go unnoticed. The Israeli embassy in Berlin recognized her life as “a testimony of survival and strength.” Following her death, Mirjam Bolle is now the oldest living Holocaust survivor. Approximately 245,000 Holocaust survivors remain, with around 14,000 residing in New York, highlighting the delicacy of our link to firsthand history.
Despite adversities, Rose Girone found solace and happiness in her family, community, and love for dark chocolate. Her story will continue to inspire as we reflect on the values of resilience, courage, and the relentless pursuit of hope.
Sources:
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-02-28/oldest-known-holocaust-surivor-rose-girone-dies/104994292
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/27/us/rose-girone-dead-holocaust-survivor.html
https://dnyuz.com/2025/02/27/oldest-known-holocaust-survivor-dies-aged-113/