Stefania Zabielska was born 100 years ago on September 2, 1912 in Warsaw, Poland. When she was born, Poland as a country did not exist because it was divided between Russian, German and Austrian Empires. After her birth, Stefania and her six siblings experienced very difficult, turbulent times as Europe was torn apart by World War I. After the war, however, there was some good news for Poles, as Poland received its independence as part of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919.

Stefania grew up and received her education in her beloved city of Warsaw during the dynamic renaissance the occurred between the wars. Stefania loved to participate in the various social and cultural events of that era. She enjoyed dancing to the sounds of popular beats of the modern artists, now free to express themselves after many years of occupation.

Stefania got married in 1937, and had three children, Adam (1938), Anna (1941), and Jack (1950). During World War II, Stefania raised two little children in the middle of the horrible war, surrounded by death and destruction. Her valiant efforts kept the family alive and healthy during these horrific times. Sometimes, even providing a meal for the family was often an impossible task.

After the war, Stefania had to face other difficult challenges. Warsaw’s residents all struggled to survive in a city that had been systematically destroyed by Hitler’s SS troops. This was a direct order from Hilter as punishment for the August 1944, Warsaw Uprising. In the late 1940’s and early 1950’s her hometown was trying to rebuild itself while suffering under Soviet severe communist oppression and occupation.

Along with the difficult outside economic and political events, Stefania had to deal with personal tragedy at home. Her loving husband passed away unexpectedly in 1977 of a stroke. In 1981, Stefania was allowed to join her children, who had all managed earlier to immigrate to the United States. Fortunately, she left Poland just days before Martial Law was declared by the Jaruzelski regime on December 13th, 1981.

During the first twenty years of her stay in America, she resided in Phoenix, living with her daughter, Anna. She was always surrounded by many friends who were attracted to the magnetism of her big heart and natural kindness.

She quickly and enthusiastically adopted her new country of residence. After passing the test for citizenship with flying colors, she was granted citizenship. She reveled in the naturalization ceremony in Phoenix in August, 1998. She was very proud of that fact, and considered it an important highlight of her life to become an American citizen.

In June of 2002, Stefania received the unfortunate news that her daughter, Anna, was sick with cancer that would take her life.

For the last two years, she has resided at Twin Cities Pavilion, Assisted Living Facility. Her condition is diminishing gradually, and she requires more assistance in her daily tasks. Despite her growing disability, Stefania is still full of good humor and likes to sing optimistic songs which she learned as a teenager in her homeland. She still greatly enjoys stylish hair, nice outfits, good perfumes, and never refuses hugs and kisses.

Unfortunately, as she ages, Stefania’s ability to communicate has been greatly reduced. This makes it so much harder to express herself and socialize with other residents. Thanks to the many great people who care for her, the level of comfort in her daily struggle has increased.

Stefania is the first member of our family to reach the age of 100 years. We are proud of Stefania, not only because of her age, but also because of her great family achievements – raising and educating three children in such difficult circumstances. She has always been, and still is, the best MOTHER. We are proud of her for being such a wonderful human being, always full of optimism and willingness to help the needy.

Written by Jack Zabielski

September 2, 2012