Maigonis Leons Barbans (known to Non Latvian friends as "Leon") was borb in Riga 28th July 1926. He grew up in Prauliena near Madona on his parents farm, along with his sisters Inta and the late Gaida.

In 1944 the farm was taked over by German troops. This lead to the family fleeing Latvia as refugees to Germany, where they worked in an agricultural camp.

After the war, his parents and sisters went to America. However Maigonis came to England. After briefly moving to Canada, he returned to England, where he met his wife Rose. They married in 1963 and were together for 50 years. Robert, their son was born in 1971. Maigonis kept in touch with many Latvian friends. 

He worked for several companies, the most recent being "Tarmac", where he worked as an accountant clerk, for 20 years.

After Latvia regained its independance, Maigonis was thtilled to be able to revisit his homeland which hi did several times staying for several month. He was joined on 3 of these trips, by Robert and Rose.

Maigonis enjoyed listening to Latvian music and watching videos of Latvian Folk Dancing and Song Festivals, some of which he filmed while in Latvia. He was very keen on Steam Traction Engines, and particularly liked vintage tractors. He enjoyed visiting many "Engine Rallies" together with his family.

Maiginis became ill with cancer of the kidney but did not show signs of illness until the last couple of month. He passed away following a stroke in "Newcross Hospita", Wolverhampton, England.