OBITUARY: Janina Damszenko

Janina Damszenko (aka Johnnie), age 98 of Gallatin, peacefully departed on April 6, 2025, in the comfort of her own home.

She was born in Poland on April 15, 1926, however her birth was not recorded until May 15, 1926 giving her two birthdays to celebrate which she was so very thrilled about celebrating every year.

Janina was a Holocaust survivor. At the age of 14, she was separated from her family and taken to Germany where she was forced to work at a labor camp.

At the age of 20 she was married to her husband Michael Damszenko. Four years later they immigrated to America. They arrived to America with no money and could not speak or understand English.

By the age of 30 she had self-taught how to speak English and became a US citizen which she was very proud of.

In 1957 the Damszenkos built their home and made a new and beautiful life in Gallatin. She enjoyed being a homemaker, shopping at pawn shops and yard sales with her dear friends.

She loved to sit with family/friends and tell stories about her life. One of her fondest memories was getting to travel to Israel twice to be with her family.

Her neighbors became dear friends and her friends became family. Janina was a beautiful soul. Some would say an angel on earth. She was a joy to be around.

She spent her time laughing with those around her. She was kind-hearted and truly one of a kind. To know her was to love her and she will be dearly missed.

Janina Damszenko is survived by a niece, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, lots of dear friends that have become her family.

She is preceded in death by her husband of many years Michael Damszenko, her parents, a brother and two sisters.

Visitation will be at Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center Thursday April 10 from 10 am until time of service at 1 pm. Interment will follow at Sumner Memorial Gardens in Gallatin.