Remembering Chester Orban: A Life Dedicated to Education, Nature, and Service
It is with heavy hearts that the New Hampshire Environmental Educators (NHEE) community shares the news of the passing of Chester "Chet" J. Orban on February 6, 2025. Chet, a beloved educator and passionate environmental advocate, left a lasting impact on the lives of countless students, colleagues, and friends throughout his 38 years in New Hampshire. He will be especially remembered for his dedication to environmental education and his role as the recipient of the 2012 New Hampshire Environmental Educator of the Year award.
A Legacy of Passion for Science and Education
Chet's journey as an educator was defined by his enthusiasm, humor, and love for teaching. As a science teacher at Campbell High School in Litchfield, NH, he was known for bringing science to life through engaging stories and real-world connections. His dedication extended beyond the classroom, as he organized school-wide events, such as the celebration of Darwin's Origin of Species, and created meaningful hands-on experiences for his students.
One of Chet’s most enduring contributions was his work with local environmental projects. He led his students in water quality studies in collaboration with the Department of Environmental Services (DES), and designed projects that integrated problem-solving and critical thinking into real-world investigations. His students also benefited from his cross-disciplinary approach, such as his Earth Day celebration and bat research projects, where they worked alongside art and woodshop departments to build bat houses for the local community park.
Chet's legacy extends to his work beyond Campbell High School, as he served as an inspiration to both his students and colleagues alike. He fostered a love for the outdoors and the environment in his students, inspiring many to pursue careers in environmental science.
A Life Well Lived
Outside of his work as an educator, Chet led a life filled with adventure and passion for nature. He was an avid hiker, fisherman, and sailor, often spending time on the waters of Manasota Key, Florida, or hiking the trails of New Hampshire. He completed several triathlons, ran many road races with his daughter Jennifer, and taught his grandchildren how to fish and enjoy the great outdoors. Chet's spirit of adventure and love for nature was a constant throughout his life, and he continued to live fully in his retirement, sharing his love for science, family, and nature with those around him.
In Memoriam
Chet's passing leaves a significant void in the lives of those who knew him. He is survived by his daughter Jennifer and her husband Matthew, his grandchildren, his brothers, and many extended family members and friends. His kindness, integrity, generosity, and zest for life will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
His family requests that in lieu of flowers, please continue his legacy and love for science and education by making any donations in his name to New Hampshire Environmental Educators at this link NHEE Donation or by mail.
If donating by check, please make it out to: New Hampshire Environmental Educators, and mail to
NHEE
c/o Squam Lakes Natural Science Center
PO Box 173
Holderness, NH 03245
Read More:
- Chester Orban’s Environmental Educator of the Year Write-Up (2012): Read here
- Chester Orban’s Full Obituary: Read here
We offer our deepest condolences to Chet's family and loved ones, and we join the community in celebrating his incredible life and legacy.