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Watertown woman joins the centenarian club

WATERTOWN, Mass. — When she walked into her birthday party, you wouldn't have guessed that it was her 100th.

Antonetta Fratini of Watertown had a surprise celebration for her centenarian birthday at the Residence at Watertown Square Sunday.

The 100-year-old was spry and enjoying catching up with friends, exuding energy of someone many years younger.

"You'd never guess she's 100...she's always been like that," said her daughter, Marisa.

The Watertown resident was born in Italy in 1917 on Oct. 29 and emigrated with her family to the U.S. when she was 11 years old.

"She remembers the electric light bulb coming to her village in Italy," said Carlo, her son.

She attended Boston University and majored in Business and then worked in her father's concrete business.

She married Dr. Eli Fratini, who passed around 20 years ago, and together they adopted Carlo and Marisa from Italy.

"She is amazing, she's absolutely amazing," said Marisa.

She was an original organic gardener in Marblehead, enjoyed the stock market, played tennis and skied into her 70s.

"That woman is strong," said Carlo.

Watertown town council proclaimed Oct. 29 as Antonetta Fratini Day in honor of her long life and contributions to the community. She was also surprised with 100 cards from all over Boston to wish her a happy birthday.

"I just mosey on every day," said Atonetta, after the surprises.

"You do more than mosey on, mama," said Marisa, as friends laughed.

Her secret is to love everybody, do all you can do and then sleep well.