As the years go by, Genevieve Marszalek continues to astonish everyone around her.

This amazing lady turned an even astonishing 108 years of age this past weekend, and it didn’t go unnoticed.

“We all love Genevieve,” gushed Tula Gatos, co-owner of Bristol House of Pizza, which once again hosted a birthday party in her honor. “She’s just a wonderful lady who is adored by everyone.”

Genevieve previously resided independently for many years all alone at North Farm. She now calls the Willows Assisted Living facility in Warren her home. She has slowed down a bit as one might imagine, but her vibrant personality continues to shine through.

“We’ve had a birthday party for her for the last several years,“ said Tula, “and she always gets so excited every year.”

In addition to her caregiver, Candace Teixeira, and other members of the Teixeira family, Genevieve received the royal treatment when members of the Bristol Police Dept., stopped by to give her an official Police Dept. cap, which she immediately placed on her head. She also received congratulatory messages from Town Administrator Steve Contente, members of the Bristol Town Council, and other local officials.

“I’m in with the cops now that I have this hat,” she shouted out. “This is beautiful.”

Bristol Town Councilman Tony Teixeira called Genevieve a special woman for the ages.

“She’s been a wonderful human being to be around,” said Mr. Teixeira. “She’s a very caring person. She used to read three or four books a week, but now she’s cut down on her reading.”

Born on Wood Street on Feb. 27, 1914, Genevieve is the daughter of the late Pasquale “Patsy” and Frances Pagnano. She also has another sister (Patricia Fojo) living in Florida, and was also the sister of the late Helen Pagnano and Lucy Bruno. She later married her husband, Joseph Marszalek, an FBI agent for a number of years, and together, traveled throughout the United States while he worked on the job.

Genevieve was also a teacher at Guiteras School and loved being around kids who were thirsting for knowledge. There’s not much that Genevieve hasn’t enjoyed doing.

“Gennie is the best,” noted Ron Armillotto. “We were part of her 100th birthday celebration. She was one of my father’s teachers in her early teaching career. My dad would have been 96 in April. She’s an amazing woman.”

Genevieve was born just five months before the start of World War I. The president of the United States at the time was Woodrow Wilson. Putting that all in perspective makes you truly understand the legacy that this woman has carved out for herself all these many years.

During her most recent birthday celebration, Genevieve enjoyed chicken wings, pizza, French fries, and of course, a special birthday cake and ice cream, served up by the Gatos family and staff.

When she found out the press was there to cover this latest birthday installment, she quickly shouted out, “I want to be on the front page.”

Genevieve Marszalek has obviously never lost her touch with her adoring public, including members of the local police department whom she adores.

“They’ve been at my birthday party in recent years and have always been so supportive.”

“I’m in with the cops,” she said excitedly. “I still have the hat they gave me in my bedroom at home. It’s great to be alive.”