James L. Barga

James L. Barga, of Colon, MI passed away at the age of age of 81 on Friday, April 10, 2026 surrounded by his children and grandchildren.  Born on November 14, 1944, James lived his days answering to many names, including Jim, Dad, Grandpa and Oink.  In October of 1970, Jim married Berniece Stammen and began building their family, having 4 children. March of 1980 was an exciting time for Jim and Berniece as they bought a farm and moved to Leonidas, MI with plans to grow crops and raise hogs. Sadly, Jim lost his wife, Berniece in August of 1981.  Jim married Laura Mahaney (Bibbings) in February 1985 and his family grew to 7 children.  Having a horse since his teenage years, it was an easy decision when the kids wanted horses of their own. Jim would go to the sales, always looking for the gem in disguise trying to give his kids the best he could find. 1991 had Jim and the family become members with Kal-Val Saddle Club, where he spent every Saturday night watching his kids, helping the shows run and eventually sitting back to enjoy his grandchildren riding. Jim held the title as Club President  for several years, eventually earning his Lifetime Membership.  Jim worked in construction for most of his life, then driving truck up until his retirement. Jim's favorite pastime was the Sunday card days with family and friends, disliking a loss of any form.  Jim is survived by his 7 children, Dawne (Steve) Steele of Plainwell, Jamie Barga of Vicksburg, Wendy (Mitch) Henckel of Topinabee, Timary Fuller of Portage, Kelly (Hoss) Reeg of Sturgis, Danica Barga of Portage and Kyle Barga of Colon.  Grandchildren, Ally Barga, Torie Barga, Makayla Henckel, Gracey (Grayson) Nola, Caiden Price, Kali (Devin) Johnson, Brady Reeg and his first great grandchild due in June. Siblings and in-laws, Roberta Condon, Marilyn and Bob Schockman, Mike Barga, Denny and Nina Barga, Leslie and Craig warren, Rosella and Jim Cronin, LaVern and Jean Stammen, George and April Stammen, John and Linda Stammen.  Jim was preceded in death by his wives, Berniece and Laura; granddaughter Megan Holt, siblings and in-laws, Jacque and Marilyn Barga, Fred Condon, Mary Barga, Della Mae and Paul Lubke, MaryAnn and Adam Esser, Ruth and Bob Platfoot, Dave and Irene Schoenline.  In keeping with his wishes, cremation has been conducted.  Visit and celebrate Jim's life on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from  2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Kal-Val Saddle Club 9853 S. 34th St. Scotts, MI 49088.  Refreshments and food to be served.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to support the celebration of Jim c/o Dawne Steele  10868 N. 10th St Plainwell, Mi 49080 or Kal-Val Saddle Club , in Jim's memory.  Mail to Martha Goodwin 10800 East U Ave Vicksburg, Mi 49097.  Arrangements with Purse Funeral Home.  www.PurseFuneralHome.com

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