Regina D. Terrazas

Regina D. Podolski Terrazas, 101, passed away on November 16, 2023, in Torrance, California. Regina was born on January 1, 1922, in Beach, North Dakota, and grew up on the family farm near Wibaux, Montana. She was the eldest of nine children.

At 17, Regina left the farm for town and worked for the Post Office. After telegraphy school in Spokane, Washington, she became a relief operator for the Northern Pacific Railroad. At 21, she joined the Navy and became a WAVE assigned to the cryptology project that intercepted and deciphered coded Japanese communications during World War II.

After the war, she settled in Southern California, married S.F. (Terry) Terrazas, and raised five children in Torrance. Later, she worked at the FAA for 20 years, retiring at 75. Regina organized monthly luncheons for the “Widows Group” at St. Catherine Laboure Church and participated in several travel and retirement clubs.

In 2014, Regina visited the World War II Memorial in Washington, DC, through the Honor Flight program accompanied by her son, Rene. She also received a proclamation from the City of Torrance for her distinguished service and dedication to her country, city, and community.

Regina was predeceased by her husband, Terry and sons, Ronald and Rene. She is survived by her daughter, Lynn (Craig) Dietlin, sons Gary (Denise) Terrazas and Keith Terrazas, and ten grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Regina by purchasing a rose vial from the Torrance Rose Float Association. https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.torrancerosefloat.org__;!!M2D_dUfSiN4E!OV-sw8GenwoqFK74vDorfX8SRKupeHQVlRBMyKfw7bzpjHneh05Ux6Wz1XN_ITNuUCPoqGlwioYRI9JMNd1Ll_x1HAw$[torrancerosefloat[.]org]