Pine Acres Resident Celebrates the Best Century of Her Life

Helen Szymanski turned 100 years old on Thursday, November 18, 2021. Born in Harrison, New Jersey in 1921 to Polish parents, Helen has lived an exciting life and she’s not slowing down. One of six children, Helen spent most of her childhood living in Harrison before moving to North Arlington and Kearny, New Jersey. Though she never had any children of her own, Helen adored spending time with her seven nieces and nephews. She worked and retired from General Motors as an Executive Assistant and volunteered as a candy striper for over 20 years at Clara Maass Medical Center. In her free time, Helen loved to sing at nightclubs and belonged to a singing group called “The Sopranos”. Helen continues to fulfill her love for music today when participating in karaoke and singalong programs at Pine Acres Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center in Madison, New Jersey. When asked how she manages to stay so young at heart Helen replied, “Just keep smiling”. Helen spent her Birthday with her closest friends at Pine Acres and was thrilled to see her God son Bobby during a surprise video chat. Happy Birthday, Helen!