Terri Takahashi

January 16, 1953 - September 26, 2024

Terri Lynn Takahashi passed away unexpectedly on September 26, 2024, in Denver, Colorado, at the age of 71. She is survived by her husband, Toshi Takahashi, and her son, Jason Takahashi, along with his wife, Lauren.

Terri was born on January 16, 1953, in Findlay, Ohio, to Russell Dugan and Josephine Martinez. She belonged to the largely forgotten generation that survived the polio epidemic. As a child, she contributed to vaccine research and development by serving as a poster child for the March of Dimes.

Despite countless obstacles, Terri persevered and found new life through her love of music. She broke into a male-dominated industry, becoming an events and marketing director. As she liked to say, she was a “former somebody.” She drew strength and inspiration from her heroine and fellow polio survivor, Joni Mitchell. Most recently, she adored the Berlin-based electronic supergroup Moderat, which became the last of hundreds of concerts she attended. After the show, she had the chance to meet them, much to her delight.

Outside her professional life, Terri was a devoted mother and wife, a tireless advocate for democracy and the environment, and a champion for disabled people. She loved riding her bike and caring for her beloved cat of nearly 20 years, Kiko. She also developed a lifelong love for Japan and cherished her extended family there.

At this time, no official service or celebration is planned, but memories and tributes for Terri are welcome in the comments below or via email at jason.takahashi@gmail.com.

Donations

Donations in Terri's honor can be made to the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition