Regina Ida Dehen

She will be remembered for her razor-sharp intellect, fierce loyalty to her family and friends, a wonderful sense of adventure, abundant curiosity, warmth and infectious laughter.

Regina came to Reed College from New York and graduated in 1987 with a degree in biology. After Reed, she settled in Portland, married a loving partner for 23 wonderful years. They raised two talented children, Tessa and Finn.

As a beloved sister-in-law to the Dehen family, Regina shared a special bond with her many sisters and brother-in-laws and was a treasured Aunt to dozens of nieces and nephews, leaving each with lasting memories of her warmth, generosity and love.

After Reed, Regina went on to receive her doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from the National University of Naturopathic Medicine (NUNM) and her Master’s Degree in Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture from Oregon College of Oriental Medicine (OCOM). She worked in private practice providing primary care and obstetric care. Later she joined the faculty and became Chair of Clinical Studies at OCOM. She then pivoted to serve as Chief Medical Officer at NUNM.

She retired from medicine to focus full time on her own wellness after she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She faced this new challenge head on with courage and intention, never backing down or shying away from the diagnoses she was given. For the next 14 years, she continued to craft a full and joyous life.

Regina became a strong advocate for survivors of metastatic breast cancer; facilitated a support group, organized and shared the latest research in breast cancer with her cohort.

Her curiosity extended outside her family and medical practice. She was a passionate and talented cook, beekeeper, botanist, and yoga teacher. She is survived by her husband, Dan; children Tessa and Finn, sister Patty, brother Aldo, 4 nieces and a large circle of friends all of whom profoundly miss her.

She was a rare and beautiful light in this too often dark world.