A resident at Friends of the Elderly’s Bernard Sunley care home in Woking has marked a remarkable milestone, celebrating his 100th birthday with family, friends and fellow residents.
Franciszek Kaizik, known as Franc, enjoyed a party at the residential, nursing and dementia care home, complete with decorations, gifts and a birthday cake.
Franc, who moved to Bernard Sunley in 2022, said he knew immediately it was the right place for him.
Franciszek Kaizik said:
“My son Michael and I visited the care home and knew from the moment we stepped through the doors that it was the perfect place for me.”
Originally from Ruda Śląska in Poland, Franc later settled in Woking, where he lived for more than 20 years.
Reflecting on his childhood, he shared fond memories of growing up and attending school close to home, as well as moments that have stayed with him throughout his life.
Franciszek Kaizik said:
“As a child, my friends and I used to listen to the German soldiers playing drums at the border. They could definitely keep the beat, and we found it rather entertaining.”
After starting his career working in a factory, Franc later retrained as a plumber, a role he said he thoroughly enjoyed.
Franciszek Kaizik said:
“I’ve never done a job that I didn’t like. I’ve always had a strong work ethic and would take on any role.”
Franc credits his father as the biggest influence in his life, passing on values that he has carried with him for decades.
Franciszek Kaizik said:
“My father always said, ‘Respect people, and they will respect you’ and ‘Don’t just talk about it, do it.’ Those are things I’ve always lived by.”
One of his proudest achievements was buying a family home outright with his wife, something he describes as a reflection of those values.
Family has remained central throughout his life, particularly following the birth of his son, Michael.
Franciszek Kaizik said:
“I’ve always put family first. When Michael was born, that became even more important.”
Over the course of a century, Franc has witnessed significant moments in history, from the Moon landing to England’s 1966 World Cup win, though one memory stands out above the rest.
Franciszek Kaizik said:
“Watching Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation on television in 1953 was something very special.”
Staff at Bernard Sunley said they were delighted to celebrate the milestone with him.
Andy Cumper, Registered Manager at Bernard Sunley, said:
“Franc is a fantastic gentleman, full of stories, always smiling and a great friend to everyone here.”
The care team organised the celebration to reflect Franc’s importance within the home, bringing residents together for a day of shared celebration.
Franciszek Kaizik said:
“I’ve had a marvellous birthday. Everyone pulled out all the stops to make it such a special day. We are like a family here, and the care team always put residents first.”
