Michele P. Damken

Michele P. Damken, 70, of Middletown, New York, passed away on January 23, 2025 with her family by her side, following a brief illness. She was a fierce, spirited woman with boundless love for her husband, children, grandchildren, family, and friends. Her boisterous laugh, generous heart, and big personality will be dearly missed by all who loved her.
Born on March 17, 1954, in Middletown, Michele was the daughter of Robert and Doris Predmore, and sister to Robert Predmore, Willard "Bo" Predmore, Thomas Predmore, Patricia Foster, and Rose McDowell. A gifted artist, Michele received her associates degree from Orange County Community College in traditional art, and later transitioned into the field of dentistry where she met her husband, Peter Damken. She always felt fate had brought them together.
After they married, Michele became a homemaker. Her greatest happiness in this life was the happiness of her family, and she dedicated every moment to supporting her children. She was the loudest voice in the bleachers during her son Jonathan's swim meets, and the first parent to volunteer to help the drama club for her daughter Margaret's plays. She sacrificed endlessly for everyone she loved, and by her example, taught us all how to live from the heart.
Genuine, thoughtful, and kind, no one could make you feel more loved and understood than Michele. Her annual mission was to give her family the perfect Christmas-and as a result, she filled our lives to the brim with magic. She had perfect penmanship, and the uncanny ability to always find the right words for any occasion because she always spoke sincerely. She enjoyed seeing Broadway shows, trips to art museums, vacations to Long Beach Island, Georgia O'Keeffe, romcoms, just the right stationery, and, more than anything, quality time spent with her family.
Michele is survived by her husband Peter Damken, son Jonathan Gunther (Leslie), daughter Margaret Damken, grandchildren Jillian and Allison Gunther, brothers Robert Predmore (Marilyn) and Thomas Predmore, sister Patricia Foster (Robert), and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, brother Bo, and sister Rose (Elmer).
A memorial service including a brief blessing will be held on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, from 3-4 PM at Applebee-McPhilips. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of your choice. As Michele always said: "Feel my hug." To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Michele, please visit our Tree Store.