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. After moving to Denver, she contributed to vaccine research and development by serving as a poster child for the March of Dimes.
Despite endless obstacles, Terri persevered and found new life through her love of music. She broke into a male-dominated record industry, becoming an promotions 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 words, memories and tributes for Terri are welcome in the comments below. Donations in Terri’s honor can be made to the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition.
Wow, I am deeply impacted by this news. Terri-you inspired and initiated my deep love for Joni Mitchell (who has guided me though my toughest times to date); you taught me how important epsonsalt baths are for soothing aches of any kind; and you mothered one of the best people I know. I wish you could have known how much you guided my development and how grateful I was for our friendship.
Rest in Peace.
Thank you for sharing those beautiful words and lovely photos. I know Terri loved the record business, did very well, and was cherished among colleagues and music friends. I met her there and recall many good times together. I also know she loved her husband very much and treasured her son, and extended family. She’s in another place now but somehow still here. Hugs to you, Toshi and Jason. I know Terri IS resting in Peace❤️
I am grateful to have shared a friendship with Terri that lasted over 30 years. When we met, I was trying to get my foot in the door in radio and didn’t know a lick about the industry, yet she took this stupid young naive kid under her wing. I was captivated by her stories from the golden age of radio and how she managed to survive in a male dominated industry despite being a woman with a disability no less. She never let that slow her down, she moved with purpose…literally. I remember having to hustle to keep up with her whenever we’d go to a concert. No matter where I was in the world, Terri always kept tabs on me and when I finally moved back to Denver, she would regularly check in to see how I was doing. It’s still hard for me to believe we’ll never be able to talk about music, politics and relationships ever again. I shall miss you my mentor, my dear sweet friend.
I was blessed to have Teri as my BFF before it became a widely used acronym. She was a part of my life for 62 years. It’s so hard to say goodbye.
There are so many stories and memories
She told me I was her hero, that I was so brave. I told her she was my hero and she was so brave. We loved each other as sisters. Definitely a part of my family.
She fought for those who were disabled, for cleaning up our environment and so many more worthy causes.
My life was better because she was in it.
RIP my friend! 💔
Thank you, Terri, for the comfort, friendship, and love you showed me. You were a maternal influence in my life and also a dear friend. My most cherished memory is going to the cat circus together. We shared a lot of laughs. You loved Princess Kiko just as I loved my beloved Topher. We shared that kinship with our kitties. I’m saddened by this news and wish I could tell you how much you meant to me. I love you and will miss you.
Jason and Toshi, I wish you comfort as you navigate this huge change without such a wonderful woman and important part of your family.