Dear Anna and family,
It is of course with heavy heart that I sign this guestbook, but it is more so with great honor and love that I remember Janis as my mentor and friend.
His teaching and his humility have always informed my own career and I can only hope that I will have done as well to my students over the years as he did for me an other graduate students, not to mention hundreds upon hundreds of undergraduates.
My most fond memory was one Saturday early in my grad career (1994, I think) that he and I biked out to the Etobicoke Creek right by the QEW to go look at the Middle Road Bridge, an early 20th-century concrete bridge by C.R. Young, dean of engineering at UofT. It was the first time I realized that grad students and their advisors could go exploring outside of classes, and I have continued that tradition these 20+ yeas since.
I will miss Janis and can only console myself in the inevitability of death and the great memories of a great (but humble) man. My great big (digital) hug to you, Anna, and fondest wishes to you all on this sad day of remembrance.
Rest in peace, my friend.
With many prayers and gratitude for the wonderful guidance and friendship he provided over many year. My condolences.
To the family of Janis my sincere condolences to you all on the loss of a fine man and a good buddy on the track.
I enjoyed his company when we caught our breath between runs and I respected his values.
Long live free Latvia.
Janis's guidance meant a lot to me during my graduate studies. Although my research was unconventional, he supported it (and me) with thoughtful advice and help navigating obstacles I couldn't have managed on my own. He cared about each of his students and our goals. Thinking of his family in this sad time.
Dear Professor Langins,
I can't believe that you are not coming to compete with us anymore on the Hart House running tracks (you always had the clicker /lap counter with you)! Your benevolent smile and your captivating stories about the great inventions of the 20th Century will be all cherished & remembered, and your friendly presence greatly missed!
With great respect, yours truly Steve Baroti, UTL.
PS. we all know that you are watching us from above, every Friday at 12:20 sharp! ;-)