Zofia Mlodzinska-Kijowski

The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution announces with great sorrow the death of former employee Zofia Mlodzinska-Kijowski on June 14, 2024, at her home in Falmouth. She was 96.

Zofia was born was born on February 27, 1928, in Wilno, Poland (currently Vilnius, Lithuania). Zofia moved to Lodz with her mom and ultimately Gdynia where she met and married Euzebiusz Mlodzinski. In 1974, four years after his death, she brought her beloved children Kasia and Jarek to England and moved to the United States in 1976. Shortly after, she married Wojciech Kijowski, her partner and soul mate for 47 years. Zofia was a woman of many passions, loving nothing more than spending time with her family, traveling the world, and skiing.
Zofia, a published PhD scientist in ocean-chemistry, dedicated over 50 years of her life to science and research. Many expeditions on various scientific ships took her to all corners of the world. Zofia began her career at WHOI in 1976 as a research associate under Derek Spencer. While at WHOI, she was solely responsible for one of only two nutrient labs in the country. She was promoted several times during her tenure and retired in 2016 as a senior research assistant.

Her professional achievements were only eclipsed by her personal triumphs. At the age of 13, she survived a bomb attack during WWII while witnessing the death of her grandfather and a serious injury to her mother, Krystyna Zaborowska. With four suitcases and her two children, she fled Communism, leaving her homeland to create a better life for her family. This was her #1 priority.

Though an avid traveler with a passion for adventure which often included skiing all over Europe, Asia and Hawaii (yes, Hawaii), Zofia’s favorite place in the world was the home she built on 27 Wampum Rd in Falmouth, MA, in 1980. It was her pride and joy. There she entertained like no other and where she also found peace and solace. Her home was always open to many visiting relatives and friends and scores of soccer players after Falmouth United summer league games!

To Zofia, an endless sports enthusiast, soreness after any physical activity was a “healthy pain.” During the summer months, swimming across Mares Pond was a daily occurrence. Each winter she hit the slopes whenever and wherever possible. She did this until the age of 91 with her husband Wojciech. Together, they traveled to many sporting events. Her favorites were Lake Placid for winter Olympics in 1980 and the Australian Open in 2014. When at home, watching tennis matches, downhill skiing and old movies were her favorite pastimes. She loved to dance and could sing harmony to any song. Many enjoyed her famous “Baba’s Smoked Cheese” and the aromatic homemade beach rose flower jam.

Zofia was a true force of nature, always full of life, love and happiness. Her enthusiasm was evident in everything she did. She possessed an incredible zest for life that manifested in her adventurous spirit. She bravely faced adversity, embraced the unknown, and her innate optimism always uplifted everyone around her. Zofia’s grand children could always rely on “Baba’s” support, help at any time and benefited greatly from her constant encouragement. She leaves behind a legacy of love, determination, and a constant reminder to cherish our time with loved ones.

Zofia is survived by her husband, Wojciech Kijowski. She also leaves behind her sister Hania Bell; daughter, Kasia (Mlodzinska) Hammar and son-in-law Terrence Hammar; son Jarek Mlodzinski and daughter-in-law Sandra (Carpenter) Mlodzinski; as well as her grandchildren, Christopher Hammar, Ania Hammar, Alexander Mlodzinski, Andrew Mlodzinski, Ashley Mlodzinski and her great-grandson Finn Hammar.
In Zofia’s own words, “jeśli nie możesz robić tego, co kochasz, kochaj to,co robisz” (if you can’t do what you love, love what you do.) She lived her life by this motto, leaving an indelible mark on the world and the hearts of those she loved. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered as a courageous, active, and loving individual who inspired us all to live life to the fullest.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, June 19 from 4-7 p.m. at Chapman Funerals & Cremations, 475 Main Street, Falmouth, MA. A Funeral Mass will take place on Thursday, June 20 at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Church, 511 Main Street, Falmouth, MA. Burial will be private.

Information for this obituary is from the Chapman Funeral Home website