Astrid Barbins Stahnke

Astrid Barbins Stahnke, 90, of Collinsville, IL, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 15, 2025, at her residence with her loving family by her side.

She was born on March 15, 1935, in Priekule, Latvia, to the late George and Milda (née Brekters) Barbins. Astrid married Prof. Arthur Allan Stahnke, on September 8, 1958. They shared an abundant life of children, friends, ideas, music, politics, and travel. Their home was a collection of artwork, crystal, dishes, and nicknacks from their many experiences. Arthur preceded her in death on July 25, 2020.

Astrid was a unique freelance writer and author of a World War II Trilogy that addressed the Latvian immigrant experience. She is a published author of poetry, smaller works of fiction, folktales, and literary commentary. She devoted much of her life to preserving and sharing Latvian culture and is known internationally for having translated the works of Lativa's beloved writer, Azpazia. She held a master's degree in English and an associate degree in Baltic studies. The Latvian government awarded Astrid the Three-Star Medal of Honor for sharing Latvian literature and culture with the West. Christian morals, values, writings, and beliefs informed her life.

Astrid was committed to being "an intelligent mother" and nurtured children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren with homemade bread, Christmas and birthday parties, stories, and adventures. She loved being in nature and gardening. Months before she passed, she made sure tulip bulbs were planted in anticipation of a bountiful spring.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her son, Karl Stahnke; her grandson, John Tsakanikas; and four siblings, Miranda Jensen, Torild Barbins, Atis Barbis, and Zigurds Barbins.

Astrid is survived by a son, John Stahnke; two daughters, Lenore Tsakanikas and Carma Stahnke; six grandchildren, Dimitri Tsakanikas, Natalia Tsakanikas, Aaron Stahnke, Jason Stahnke, Alexander Stahnke, and Gabriel Stahnke; six great-grandchildren, Ariel, Atlas, Evangeline, Emmabelle, Prometheus, and Sophie; and a sister, Ruth (Jerry) Paul of FL.

Memorial visitation will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Barry Wilson Funeral Home in Maryville, IL. A memorial service will follow at 4:00 p.m., with Rev. John Hembruch officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church in Edwardsville and will be accepted at the visitation or may be mailed to Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.