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

As a teenager, she escaped on foot from Germany to her home, later graduated from the famous Małachowianka High School in Płock, and today, at the age of one hundred, she still gladly reaches for her crossword puzzles and favorite books. Mrs. Zofia Barańska, née Górecka, a resident of the Dobrcz commune (Bydgoszcz County), celebrated her remarkable jubilee. Vice-Chairman of the Regional Parliament, Przemysław Sznajdrowski, visited her with congratulations and the Marshal’s Unitas Durat Palatinatus Cuiaviano-Pomeraniensis medal.

“They are a treasure trove of experience, good advice, and memories. May each day be a source of joy, and may it pass in an atmosphere of love and support,” said Marshal Piotr Całbecki.

Mrs. Zofia was born on November 7, 1925, in Borowiczki near Płock, in the Mazowieckie Region, as the daughter of Józef and Jadwiga Góreccy. She grew up in a warm, family atmosphere with her brother and sister.

During World War II, she was deported to Germany for forced labor. Thanks to her courage and the help of one German man, she managed to escape and walk back home. After the war, she graduated from the Małachowski High School in Płock — one of the oldest schools in Poland.

After marrying Leon Barański, she lived in Wrocław and later in Bydgoszcz, where she worked for many years in residential administration until her retirement as an accountant. She was valued for her diligence, kindness, and dedication to her work. After her husband’s death in 1990, she lovingly raised their two children and now enjoys the love of three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

In retirement, she devoted herself fully to her family — helping to raise her grandchildren, cooking favorite dishes, and spending her free time with a book and a cup of tea.

She has lived in the Dobrcz commune for 25 years. A passionate reader and crossword enthusiast, she has earned the title of one of the most active readers at the Dobrcz library, where, on her 90^th birthday, she received a cake decorated with — of course — a crossword puzzle.

The regional self-government has been honoring centenarians of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie since 2018. Families of residents who will soon reach the age of one hundred, or those already older, are encouraged to contact us at 56 62 18 344 or stulatkowie@kujawsko-pomorskie.pl.

Beata Krzemińska
Spokesperson for the Marshal’s Office

November 12, 2025