Janis Robins

Robins, Janis Age 88. Born August 3, 1925 in Riga, Latvia; died December 14, 2013. Janis is survived by his wife of 62 yrs, Brigita; daughters, Baiba (Glad) Olinger, Daina Robins (Peter von Websky), Laila Robins, Zaiga Robins; two grandchildren, Maris and Kaija von Websky. He was preceded in death by his only son, Maris, who died in 1962. He is also survived by nieces, nephews, cousins and loved ones in Latvia and the U.S.A. Janis emigrated to the United States in 1949 after spending five years in post-WWII displaced persons' camps. Janis completed a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Washington, in Seattle, WA; he spent the majority of his professional career as a research scientist at 3M, living in St. Paul. He was a very active member within the Latvian-American community, giving of his time in service to his church, fraternity, the arts, and sport, particularly volleyball. In 2005 Janis was awarded the 3-star medal of honor from his homeland of Latvia for his extensive efforts to help the Latvian community during years of both Soviet-occupation and after Latvia regained its independence. He was accomplished, humble and beloved by his family. Funeral services will be held on Monday, December 23 at 11 am at the Minneapolis-St. Paul Latvian Ev. Lutheran Church, 3152 17th Ave. South, Minneapolis, MN 55407. Visitation at 10 am to precede service; luncheon to follow the 11 am service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a charitable donation to the Latvian Center Garezers (a youth camp) or the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia. Arrangements by www.Washburn-McReavy.com Crystal Lake Chapel 612-521-3677
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.