SOUTH RIVER– To commemorate and admire a century of life, longtime borough resident Pearl Markowski celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by her family and friends.
Markowski enjoyed her birthday with a party on July 15 at the St. Mary of Ostrabrama Church attended by the 100 people most important to her.
The eldest of seven siblings, Markowski was born at home in Sayreville along with her twin sister, Mary, on July 15, 1917. Her parents were Felix and Stella Brzozowski, according to Markowski’s granddaughter, Lori Markowski.
“I moved to South River after I married my husband John Markowski on April 29, 1939. We were married 35 years [and it] would have been 71 years if he was living today. I lived in South River [for] 65 years, raising my two sons, Leon and Gerald,” Pearl Markowski said.
After working at the Bermans sewing factory in South River, Pearl Markowski said that she worked at the Princess Bakery in East Brunswick after her husband passed away.
“I enjoyed my children in town with me and my grandchildren, along with local family and friends,” Pearl Markowski said. “I found my happiness in time with my family. My children and grandchildren led to a long happy life.”
Pearl Markowski thanked her daughter-in-law for treating her like her own mother.
“I miss my husband, son and sister very much and all at the same time. My grandchildren and great grandchildren keep me going; without their love and support and help I would not be here. I have seen enough to know to appreciate everything and everyone because things change so quickly and nothing lasts forever. Thank you,” Pearl Markowski said.
“I feel it is amazing, and an absolute blessing, to witness our grandmother turn 100. She is the matriarch of our family. Through the stories of her life, and the love she has shown us all, we have learned the true meaning of family and resilience. She has lived through the Great Depression, war, and losing loved ones including but not limited to her son, siblings, her twin sister and her beloved husband Johnny. She still wakes every morning, and retires each night, thanking God for all she has and prays she is not a burden to those around her. We love her, would do anything for her … as she has done for us all. We enjoy every story she shares and relives with us, and there are many after living 100 years young. Each day with her is a blessing,” Lori Markowski said.
Contact Vashti Harris at [email protected].