Orah Mae Millar

Orah Mae Millar, 88, of Rancho Palos Verdes passed away on August 31, 2020. She was preceded in death by her brother, Julian Eidsmoe, and her husband, Peter Millar. She is survived by her brother, Lyle Eidsmoe of Sutter Creek, CA; her daughters, Robin Millar of Rancho Palos Verdes; Debra Regler and son-law, Tim, of Weeping Water, NE; April Flanigan and son-in-law, John, of Winchester, VA; six grandchildren – Peter Pallett, Laura Regler, McKayla Regler, MacKenzie Regler, Andrew Flanigan, and Corey Flanigan; four great-grandchildren – Rylan Regler, Esme Wheeler, Scarlett Flanigan, and Ruby Pallett.
Orah Mae was born May 31, 1932 in Crookston, MN, daughter of the late Alfred and Clara Eidsmoe. After growing up working in her family’s small restaurant, she followed her brothers to California after the war and found work at Convair Aircraft. There she met Peter Millar, whom she would marry in 1954, and to whom she was steadfastly devoted until his death in 2003.
During the 1960’s Peter met success as a cartoonist and publisher, which enabled he and Orah Mae to travel extensively with their young daughters. Their extended tour of Europe included a two year residence in Sweden, a half-year in Spain and excursions by Volkwagen camper to many of the centers of art and other tourist attractions across the continent. They even managed a trip past the iron curtain into the Eastern Bloc and Soviet Russia with their young daughters in tow.
Returning to Palos Verdes in 1971, Orah Mae finished raising her family and later worked for Sears for many years. In retirement, she volunteered many hours in support of
the Point Vicente Interpretive Center, Torrance Memorial Hospital, and St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. Over many seasons she helped to decorate the City of Torrance Rose Parade float, as well as decorating Christmas trees for the Torrance Memorial Christmas tree auction. With husband Pete, she began attending the Hot Rod Reunion in Bakersfield, CA, selling posters and memorabilia from Pete Millar’s Drag Cartoon’s magazines. After his passing, Orah Mae continued as the former racer/cartoonist’s wife, attending the Hot Rod Reunion and other car shows, along with her daughter, Robin.
Orah Mae is remembered for her loving smile, generous heart, and gracious hospitality. She welcomed everyone as a friend. Many of her guests remember her as their favorite hostess.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 31290 Palos Verdes Dr. W., Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 or NHRA Motorsports Museum, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona, CA 91768.