JANICE LYNN ORBAKER

Jan was a remarkable woman whose love for horses and animals was matched only by her kindness and dedication to others. Her many equestrian accomplishments reflected not just her talent, but her unwavering spirit and grace. She found great joy in teaching children to ride, patiently passing on her knowledge and love of horses to the next generation. Her legacy will live on in every life she touched – in the arenas she graced, the students she inspired, and the gentle strength she shared with all who knew her. She married Richard Orbaker in 1973 and had a stepson, Kevin Orbaker. When Rich was injured and closed Redlands Feed in 2004, Jan helped him continue to run his business and kept it running till her passing. For over 29 years, Jan served as the heart and soul of the Redlands Humane Society. As President, she dedicated herself tirelessly to fostering and adoption events, ensuring countless animals found loving homes. Her compassion knew no bounds – she lovingly cared for cats in her cattery until their final days and extended her care to dogs, burros, pigeons, Soda Pop (a pot belly pig), and Hercules (the goat). Jan had a special bond with all animals, but especially with Noodles, her longtime loving horse companion, Goggles, her beloved cat, and Boomer, her loyal dog. She loved them deeply and cared for them with unwavering devotion until the very end. Jan served as the Chair of the Mentone Chamber of Commerce from 2022-25 and Vice-Chair from 2020-21 where she played a key role in community engagement. Her leadership extended to active participation in hallmark events such as Mentone Days and the International Film Festival - both of which celebrate the region’s rich culture and spirit. In recognition of her outstanding service and dedication, Jan was honored as the 2025 Women of Distinction for the Mentone area, an award presented by Assemblyman James Ramos of the 45th Assembly District. In lieu of flowers, apples and/or carrots can be taken to The Centre at Greenspot, 9350 Amethyst Avenue in Mentone or contributions may be sent to the Redlands Humane Society, P.O. Box 7946, Redlands, CA 92375

JANICE LYNN ORBAKER

January 23, 1951 - June 19, 2025