Longtime Michigan Farmer and Horse Enthusiast James L. Barga Dies at 81

Barga's life celebrated at Kal-Val Saddle Club, where he served as president for years

Apr. 15, 2026 at 8:35pm

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A high-contrast silkscreen print of a single, iconic equestrian item such as a saddle or horseshoe, repeated in a tight grid pattern with flat, vibrant neon colors and heavy black outlines, conceptually representing the equestrian lifestyle that was central to James Barga's life.The vibrant equestrian memorabilia that filled James Barga's life will be celebrated at a memorial event honoring his decades-long involvement with the local Kal-Val Saddle Club.Vicksburg Today

James L. Barga, a lifelong resident of Colon, Michigan, passed away on April 10, 2026 at the age of 81. Barga was known by many names, including Jim, Dad, Grandpa, and Oink, and was an avid farmer, horse lover, and longtime member of the Kal-Val Saddle Club, where he served as president for several years.

Why it matters

Barga's story highlights the importance of community involvement and passion for hobbies, even in the face of personal loss. His dedication to his family, farming, and the local saddle club made him a beloved figure in the Colon area.

The details

Barga married his first wife, Berniece Stammen, in 1970, and they had four children together. In 1980, the family bought a farm in Leonidas, Michigan, where they grew crops and raised hogs. After Berniece's passing in 1981, Barga remarried in 1985 to Laura Mahaney (Bibbings), expanding his family to seven children. Barga worked in construction and trucking for most of his life before retiring. His favorite pastime was Sunday card games with family and friends.

  • Barga was born on November 14, 1944.
  • He married Berniece Stammen in October 1970.
  • Barga and his family bought a farm in Leonidas, Michigan in March 1980.
  • Berniece Barga passed away in August 1981.
  • Barga remarried to Laura Mahaney (Bibbings) in February 1985.

The players

James L. Barga

An 81-year-old lifelong resident of Colon, Michigan who was known by many names, including Jim, Dad, Grandpa, and Oink. He was an avid farmer, horse lover, and longtime member of the Kal-Val Saddle Club, where he served as president for several years.

Berniece Stammen

Barga's first wife, whom he married in 1970. They had four children together before her passing in 1981.

Laura Mahaney (Bibbings)

Barga's second wife, whom he married in 1985. Their marriage expanded Barga's family to seven children.

Kal-Val Saddle Club

The local saddle club that Barga was heavily involved with, serving as president for several years and earning a lifetime membership.

Dawne Steele

One of Barga's seven children.

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What they’re saying

“Jim's favorite pastime was the Sunday card days with family and friends, disliking a loss of any form.”

— Dawne Steele, Barga's daughter

What’s next

A celebration of James L. Barga's life will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Kal-Val Saddle Club in Scotts, Michigan. Refreshments and food will be served, and donations can be made to support the event.

The takeaway

Barga's story highlights the importance of community involvement and pursuing one's passions, even in the face of personal loss. His dedication to his family, farming, and the local saddle club made him a beloved figure in the Colon area.