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

They were born on the same day, July 23, 1925 – he in Kupno, in the Podkarpackie Region, she in Izdebno, in the Mazowieckie Region. He led partisan units through Nazi-occupied territory, while she, at just fourteen, hid weapons and witnessed the execution of Jewish civilians in Łaskarzew (Mazowieckie). Both survived the war, built families, worked hard throughout their lives, and today continue to inspire with their vitality and cheerful spirit. Józef Niezgoda and Stanisława Gorczycka have turned 100 and have joined the ranks of those honored with the Unitas Durat Palatinatus Cuiaviano-Pomeraniensis medal. They were visited with birthday wishes by Marek Wojtkowski, a member of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Regional Executive Board.

“May the kindness you extend to others return to you multiplied by the care, warmth, and attention of your loved ones. May each day bring joy, love, and support,”
wrote Marshal Piotr Całbecki in his message of congratulations.

Józef Niezgoda, born in Kupno (Podkarpackie Region), is known as a man of action, committed to his work and responsibilities. He faced adversity from an early age, having lost his mother as a child. During the war, he showed bravery and dedication, including leading a partisan unit through German-occupied territory. After the war, he settled in Włocławek, where he met Eugenia, the love of his life. He worked physically for many years, mainly in a soda bottling plant. Together with his wife, he raised three children. Today, Mr. Józef enjoys the deep respect of his family, impresses with his agility, mental sharpness, and boundless curiosity about the world. He passionately reads historical and religious literature, and his remarkable memory and good spirits are a source of inspiration to his six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

That same day, Ms. Stanisława Gorczycka, born in Izdebno (Mazowieckie Voivodeship), also celebrated her 100th birthday. Her life story is one of strength, faith, and hard work. During the occupation, she was forced to work for a German family. After the war, she and her loved ones settled in Długie (Rypin County), where they built a new life from scratch. Together with her husband Stanisław, she ran a farm and raised two sons. For decades, her home was a place of community and prayer. Today, surrounded by family, Ms. Stanisława still tends to her garden with joy, sharing her wisdom and life experience. Her secret to longevity? Hard work, faith, closeness to nature, and a simple, healthy diet.

Since 2018, the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Regional Self-Government has been honoring centenarians in the region. Families of residents who will soon be turning 100 – or are already over 100 – are encouraged to get in touch by calling 56 62 18 344 or emailing stulatkowie@kujawsko-pomorskie.pl.

Beata Krzemińska
Spokesperson of the Marshal’s Office

July 25, 2025