Peter Orbansen, good friend and colleague to hundreds of expeditioners and others associated with Antarctica, died at Davis in November 2005. His loss has come as a shock and a very great sadness to all who knew him.
He dedicated most of his working life to Antarctica. His face will always smile on future expeditioners from group photographs hanging on the walls of Antarctic stations. Indeed the walls themselves speak his name, since as a skilled carpenter and building supervisor he was largely responsible for their construction.
He first travelled south in October 1987 and was one of the last to occupy the old Casey tunnel. When he returned in 1989, he helped build much of present Casey. Altogether he worked at every station, during six winters and several additional summers. At the time of his death he had recently returned to Davis to work on foundations for further new buildings.
Orby will be fondly remembered for much more than the physical legacy he left in Antarctica. He never had a bad word to say about anyone, and his numerous friends will always treasure memories of his delightfully wry sense of humour. He valued his privacy, but was always prepared to help a newcomer with sound and friendly advice. He provided a shining example of how to live and work in a cooperative, productive Antarctic community.
JEREMY SMITH, Station Leader, Casey, 2005
We would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere thanks for the messages and flowers sent on our loss of Peter, or ‘Orby’ as you know him.
We receive great comfort knowing you are all thinking of us at this very sad and difficult time, and that you hold Pete in such high regard.
Thank you,
John & Rose Orbansen
Carol & Greg
Jane, Jack, Kelsey & Abbey