Died This Day September 13th

It's a little eerie—but also kind of poetic—how certain days seem to gather the farewells of history's giants. While you're going about your day, maybe sipping coffee or scrolling your phone, it could also be the anniversary of the day a legendary writer penned their final chapter, or a trailblazing inventor powered down for the last time. Some days feel like they echo with the footsteps of those who came before—artists, leaders, thinkers—leaving behind legacies that still shape the world. It’s a reminder that while their time ended, their stories didn’t.

Erma Bergmann

Baseball player and All-American Girls League MVP
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2015 11 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent baseball player competed in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League from 1943 to 1954. Played for multiple teams, including the Racine Belles and the Minneapolis Millerettes. Achieved acclaim as an All-Star and showcased talent both as a pitcher and an infielder. Contributed significantly to the popularity of women's baseball during the league's existence. Retired following the league's dissolution in 1954 and later received recognition for contributions to the sport. Inducted into the Women’s Sports Hall of Fame in 1988.

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Moses Malone

Basketball player and three-time MVP
Born
March 23rd, 1955 71 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2015 11 years ago — 60 years old

A professional basketball player played primarily as a center in the NBA. Achieved recognition for exceptional rebounding skills and scoring ability. Enjoyed a successful career spanning from 1974 to 1995, playing for teams including the Houston Rockets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Atlanta Hawks. Contributed to the 76ers' 1983 NBA Championship victory. Earned three Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, the first player in NBA history to achieve this feat consecutively. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2001.

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Pete Domenici

American politician, U.S. Senator
Born
May 7th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2017 9 years ago — 85 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from New Mexico from 1973 to 2009. Played a significant role in various legislative initiatives, particularly in the areas of budget reform and energy policy. Also served as the mayor of Albuquerque in the early 1970s, contributing to local governance and development. Advocated for fiscal responsibility and was involved in efforts to reform the nation's budgetary process.

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Eddie Money

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
March 21st, 1949 77 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2019 7 years ago — 70 years old

This musician emerged in the late 1970s and gained recognition for his blend of rock, pop, and blue-eyed soul. Debut album 'Eddie Money' featured the hit single 'Baby Hold On.' Subsequent albums included 'Life for the Taking' and 'No Control,' showcasing chart-topping tracks like 'Two Tickets to Paradise' and 'Take Me Home Tonight.' The artist's signature sound combined catchy melodies with heartfelt lyrics. Money continued to perform and tour throughout his career, maintaining a loyal fan base until his death in 2019.

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Jean-Luc Godard

Film director of Breathless and Alphaville
Born
December 3rd, 1930 95 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2022 4 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent figure in the French New Wave cinema, played a crucial role in transforming film language and narrative structure during the late 1950s and 1960s. As a director and screenwriter, produced influential works that examined social and political themes. Launched a cinematic revolution with the feature film 'Breathless', which displayed innovative techniques such as jump cuts and a fragmented narrative. Additionally, directed 'Alphaville', an iconic science fiction film that combined genre elements with philosophical ideas, contributing to the evolution of art cinema.

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Pravin Gordhan

South African politician and finance minister
Born
April 12th, 1949 77 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2024 2 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent figure in South African politics, served in various capacities including Minister of Finance on multiple occasions. Played a key role in shaping the economic policies of the country post-apartheid and was instrumental in the establishment of the South African Revenue Service as a transformative institution. Oversaw the financial sector during times of economic challenge and worked to improve fiscal policies.

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Mary McFadden

Fashion designer and textile innovator
Born
October 1st, 1938 88 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2024 2 years ago — 85 years old

A significant figure in American fashion, contributed to the emergence of bold and luxurious styles in the 1970s and 1980s. Pioneered the use of intricate embroidery and exotic textiles in ready-to-wear collections. First gained attention with the introduction of her unique design aesthetics featuring rich cultures and handcrafted techniques. Also known for founding the clothing brand that bears her name, establishing a reputation for creative and tailored designs that fused deep history with modern sensibilities.

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Wolfgang Gerhardt

German politician and leader of FDP
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2024 2 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent German politician, played a significant role in the Free Democratic Party (FDP). Served as the Federal Minister for Special Affairs from 1990 to 1994. Elected as the chair of the FDP in 1995 and led the party until 2001. Influenced party policies during a period of substantial political changes in Germany. Represented the state of Hesse in the Bundestag from 1983 until 2002, contributing to legislative efforts in various areas, including economic and educational reforms. After leaving leadership, continued to serve in various legislative and advisory roles until later years.

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Lex Marinos

Actor and television personality
Born
February 1st, 1949 77 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2024 2 years ago — 75 years old

An Australian actor gained recognition for appearances in television series and films. Featured prominently in the series "Acropolis Now," a comedy that satirized Greek Australian culture. Additionally, played roles in other notable productions, reflecting a commitment to showcasing Australian stories and experiences.

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