Janine L. Grimm 1960-2024

She was born July 19, 1960, in Youngstown, a daughter of John R. and Yolanda Pace Ross.

Janine was a 1978 graduate of Ursuline High School and attended Youngstown State University. She served for many years as the first assistant cashier for the City of Youngstown.

Nothing was more important to Janine than her love and devotion to her family. The importance of family was instilled in her at a young age by her parents. As an only child, Janine was loved and doted on by her parents, who saw her as the center of their universe. When she became a wife and mother herself, she displayed the same love and dedication to her husband, Richard, and daughters, Lauren and Nicole.

The ease with which she approached motherhood was evident to all who knew Janine. Her unwavering devotion to her family was visible in every facet of her life — from enthusiastically supporting her girls’ passion for swimming and tennis, to planning fabulously themed birthday parties for them, complete with homemade decorations and party favors. Janine also loved to bake — no less than three or four kinds of her lovingly baked cookies adorned the cookie tables of every family graduation party, bridal shower or wedding. Her holiday celebrations were the highlight of the year with her famous lasagna, chopped salads and strawberry pretzel dessert gracing many a dinner table. Janine’s extended family eagerly anticipated her annual Easter Sunday celebration, which quickly became a cherished family tradition filled with warmth and love.

As her daughters grew and began their own journeys outside the family home, Janine discovered her own passion through the game of tennis. She was a tenacious competitor, perfecting her game by playing daily on the courts of the Avalon Athletic Club. She proudly served as league captain of POWTA and was known for the motivational text messages she would send to hype up her “tennis ladies” before a big match. She always exhibited exuberance and enthusiasm through her love of the sport. Off the court, she enjoyed spending time with her beloved friends she made along the way.

In September 1987, Janine married Dr. Richard C. Grimm and they raised two daughters together, Lauren, and Nicole, in a loving and supportive home. Janine loved nothing more than spending time with her daughters, cooking them their favorite meals and doing weekly Target runs together.

Janine also leaves behind her mother-in-law, Barb Grimm, with whom she shared a special relationship; sister-in-law, Melanie (Joe) Trimble; her loving aunt and godmother, Lillian Pignatelli; three “sister cousins,” Jennifer (Jon) Falbo, Andrea (John) Elberty and Alyssa (Rob) Armeni; and nephew, Travis Lupton. Janine also leaves behind her adored dog, Max, who was particularly devoted to her.

Besides her parents, Janine was preceded in death by her father-in-law, Richard C. Grimm; and nephew, Dylan Lupton.

Family and friends may pay their respects 9 to 10:50 a.m. Saturday, July 13, 2024, at St. Christine Church, 3165 S. Schenley Ave., Youngstown, where a Funeral Mass will follow at 11 a.m., with Father Steve Zeigler as celebrant.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi & Santucci Funeral Home, 4221 Market St., Boardman. Family and friends may visit www.rossisantuccifh.com to view this obituary and send condolences to Janine’s family.

Janine leaves a lasting legacy of love and devotion. Her zest for life touched everyone she met. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

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