Ilga Kalnins, age 92, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Ilga was born on January 28, 1933, in Vietalva, Latvija. In 1944, as Soviet forces approached, her family fled their homeland. After several years in Displaced Persons camps in Germany, they emigrated to the United States in 1949 under a sponsorship program.
She graduated from Central High School and went on to attend the Butterworth Hospital School of Nursing in Grand Rapids, Michigan, graduating in September 1955. She became a United States citizen and earned her certification as a Registered Nurse in 1956. Ilga began her career as a surgical nurse at Butterworth Hospital before transitioning to Maple Grove, later known as Kent Community Hospital, where she worked for 28 years and rose to the position of Head Nurse. During her career, she received an honorable mention for Nurse of the Year in 1983 for her dedication and excellence in nursing.
Even after retirement, Ilga remained a compassionate caregiver. She was known as a nurse at heart—always willing to help friends and family. Her kindness, strength, and devotion touched many lives.
Ilga was a proud and active member of the Latvian community in Grand Rapids. She was deeply involved in the Latvian Lutheran Church and participated regularly in the Latvian Association, preserving her heritage and supporting her community.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Aldonis, who passed away on July 30, 2014, after a courageous battle with cancer; her father, Janis Gargurns, in 1953; and her mother, Lidija Gargurns, in 1988.
Ilga is survived by her son, Edmunds, and daughter-in-law, Julia; her cherished grandchildren, Kendra and Troy; and cousins in Latvija.
Her legacy of love, faith, and service will live on through those she touched.
Services will be held at 11:00 am, Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 with visitation one-hour prior. Rev. Aija Graham officiating. Private interment at Woodlawn Cemetery. In Lieu of flowers, please donate to the Latvian Association of Grand Rapids, 504 Grand Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, or a charity of your choice.
One Response
Ilga was a dear and special friend (and 2nd or 3rd cousin) to my mom, Austra Mikelens Blaus (who lives in PA) from back in Latvia. They shared a dedication to nursing. She will be missed.