Polish politician Joanna Senyszyn is mourning the loss of her husband, Bolesław Senyszyn, who passed away at the age of 73 on February 11, 2025. The couple shared nearly five decades together, creating a life grounded in mutual respect and support for each other's work.
Bolesław was well-respected within the legal community, serving as both judge and advocate throughout his career. He began his judicial work in the 1970s, presiding over serious criminal cases at the Pomeranian District Court, before transitioning to private practice where he handled civil, criminal, and economic cases.
Joanna and Bolesław crossed paths shortly after Joanna earned her doctorate, and they quickly built their life together. Joanna once affectionately referred to their marriage as “maritime,” explaining how her frequent trips to Warsaw often left Bolesław waiting for her return to Gdynia. "It was as if I was setting sail for the city, like Penelope waiting for Odysseus," she would recount, illustrating the unique dynamic of their relationship. Her perspective highlighted how absence can sometimes strengthen bonds, as the couple eagerly anticipated each reunion.
Despite their busy careers, the Senyszyns made time for each other. Bolesław supported Joanna’s political ambitions, approving her travel and commitments outside the home. Joanna praised her husband’s wisdom and integrity, noting the luck she felt to have shared her life with him. "I have lived almost 50 years with him, and I considered it one of the best decisions of my life," she emphasized, reflecting on their choice not to have children.
This decision was deliberate, and Joanna reiterated her satisfaction with it. “I never regretted it; I chose this kind of life. We were happy,” she explained to the press. They often discussed their roles within the marriage, with Bolesław humorously recalling their agreement: he would make major decisions, and Joanna would handle the smaller ones. Nonetheless, as he cheekily pointed out, there were hardly any major matters to decide.
News of Bolesław’s passing has prompted deep sorrow among friends, colleagues, and supporters. Joanna took to social media to share her heavy heart: "He was very real, noble, wise. I was fortunate to have spent almost 50 years with him. Goodbye, Bolek! The world without you will be worse," she wrote, evoking shared memories and sentiments from those who knew the couple.
Tributes poured in, highlighting the substantial legacy of Bolesław’s life and the love between the Senyszyns. Friends and acquaintances expressed their condolences online, saying things like, "A very good man" and "I am very sorry; the world is poorer without this caring and cultured man." Many commented on the couple’s extraordinary bond, admiring how they managed to flourish both personally and professionally.
Joanna’s political career has always intersected with her personal life, and even during this period of mourning, she remains undeterred. On February 10, she reaffirmed her intention to run for president of Poland, emphasizing the need for leadership focused on peace, security, and prosperity for all citizens. She shared her desire for Poland to have strong female representation, stating, "Poland needs a president: a woman who ensures peace, safety, and well-being for all citizens."
This personal loss echoes within both the political and legal communities, where Bolesław Senyszyn will be remembered not just as Joanna’s partner but also for his own contributions to the legal discourse and public life of Poland. His absence will be deeply felt, and the legacy of their nearly fifty years together serves as a poignant reminder of love and partnership.