INFORMATION PORTAL OF THE MARSHAL'S OFFICE OF THE KUJAWSKO-POMORSKIE Region IN TORUŃ

A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose life has been filled above all with love and care for her family is celebrating her 100th birthday. On Thursday (August 7), Marshal Piotr Całbecki visited Toruń resident Danuta Wajs, presenting the centenarian with the Unitas Durat Palatinatus Cuiaviano-Pomeraniensis medal.

“You are the pillar of a multigenerational family, a treasury of knowledge and life experience. May the kindness you give to others return to you strengthened by their care and warmth. May open hearts, smiles, and a cheerful spirit accompany you every day,” wished Marshal Piotr Całbecki.

She was born on August 7, 1925, in Brześć Kujawski, where she spent her childhood and youth. She lived with her parents, Marianna and Wacław Zalewski, and her sister Lucyna in a house with a beautiful large garden. Her father, the only electrician in the small Kujawy town, was a busy man. Her parents ensured she received an education; just before the outbreak of the war, after finishing secondary school in Włocławek, she passed her lower secondary certificate.

During the occupation, Mrs. Danuta remained in her hometown, where she met her future husband. Marcin Wajs, originally from Toruń, had moved to Brześć Kujawski with his family because of his father’s job.

Marcin and Danuta were married on December 31, 1945. The couple settled in Toruń. After her husband’s death in 1976, Mrs. Danuta began working in a store selling sailing equipment, where she remained until the end of her professional career.

“Our mother’s passion was sewing — she made our clothes, repaired them, and altered them. She cared for us throughout our childhood,” recalls her son Julian.

Today, Mrs. Danuta is cared for by her family. She has eleven grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren.

Since 2018, the regional self-government has honored residents of the region who turn 100. Families of seniors who will soon celebrate their centenary — as well as those who are older — are encouraged to contact us at +48 56 62 18 344 or by email at stulatkowie@kujawsko-pomorskie.pl.

Press Office of the Marshal’s Office

August 8, 2025