Local ‘Rosie the Riveter’ celebrates 101st birthday in style
Jenny Grzyb is surrounded by loved ones and Waltonwood University staff during her 101st birthday celebration.
On April 14, Waltonwood University in Rochester Hills honored the 101st birthday of Jenny Grzyb, a Detroit native and living link to the city’s “Arsenal of Democracy” history.
A centenarian who served on the WWII assembly line at Dodge manufacturing B-29 bomber engines, Grzyb’s milestone celebrates a century of service, Polish-American heritage, and deep community roots.
The event offered a unique opportunity to profile a woman who helped power the American war effort before building a 70-year legacy in Michigan.
Transition to family life
Her transition from the war effort to family life began in the summer of 1945.
On June 23, 1945, she married Lenny Grzyb, who was home on leave from the Navy where he served as a navigator and pilot. The two remained happily married for 70 years until Lenny’s passing in 2015.
Still enjoys hobbies
Together, they raised three children and built a life filled with cherished traditions.
Whether it was camping and dancing at Camp Dearborn with neighbors or hosting massive family gatherings at a cottage in Caseville, Grzyb’s life has always centered on community.
Today, the mother of three, grandmother of five and great-grandmother of one still enjoys her favorite hobbies, including crocheting, watching the Hallmark Channel and occasional trips to the casino to play the slots or “21.”
