Imants “JB” Bardins, age 64 of Grand Rapids, passed away unexpectedly. JB was born in Bucholt Germany, and emigrated to the U.S. in 1952 with parents Janis and Marta Bardins, and brothers Visvaldis (Wally) and Vilis (Bill). After several years in the Edmore then Stanton area the family moved to Grand Rapids and the boys attended Union and South High School working in their dad’s auto garage, while Marta went to work for Baker Furniture with her specialty of caning. JB joined her there after school and became a very talented finish worker on some of Baker’s most unique and beautiful pieces. He worked in the Grand Rapids, Holland and later North Carolina plants until moving back to Grand Rapids several years ago. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Barbara who passed away in 2000. Also preceded by his parents Janis and Marta. JB is survived by his brother Wally (Kathy) Bardins, niece and nephew Sara and Matthew, and brother Bill (Susan). A visitation with the family will be held Thursday 4-8:00 pm at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids.
