Aimo Koivunen
Finnish soldier and war hero
Served as a corporal in the Finnish Army during World War II. Participated in the Continuation War against the Soviet Union. Gained recognition for surviving a heroic solo escape after a severe battle in 1944, which involved traversing through enemy lines while wounded. Documented experiences in the Arctic warfare drew attention to the harsh conditions faced by soldiers in winter combat.
Survived a solo escape across enemy lines
Fought in the Continuation War
Other People Born on October 17th
Peter Stringfellow
English nightclub owner and entrepreneur
Born
October 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 78 years old
Owned and operated several successful nightclubs, with Stringfellow's in London being the most notable. Established a reputation for high-energy nightlife featuring celebrity guests and performances. Expanded business into a chain of venues in the UK and beyond. Involved in various entertainment ventures, including promoting events and festivals.
Continue ReadingÁngel Cristo
Spanish circus performer and illusionist
Born
October 17th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 66 years old
Born in Spain, a prominent circus performer achieved recognition for captivating audiences with a blend of illusion and acrobatics. In the 1970s and 1980s, headlined several successful circus performances across Europe, showcasing unique acts that featured daring stunts and intricate tricks. Established a family legacy by mentoring the next generation of circus artists, contributing to the arts through performances that emphasized skillful coordination and physical artistry. Engaged in various television appearances, bringing circus entertainment to a broader audience while demonstrating traditional techniques in contemporary formats.
Continue ReadingAida Navarro
Venezuelan mezzo-soprano with operatic acclaim
Born
October 17th, 1937 88 years ago
Born in Venezuela, a renowned mezzo-soprano gained recognition for performances in classical opera. Education included studies at the Caracas Conservatory. Debuted at the Teatro Municipal de Caracas and gained international prominence with engagements at major opera houses across Europe and the Americas. Significant contributions included a long-term collaboration with the Valencia Opera, performing roles in operas such as 'Carmen' and 'The Marriage of Figaro'.
Continue ReadingAlan Garner
English author known for fantasy novels
Born
October 17th, 1934 91 years ago
A prominent English author and playwright, activities primarily focused on writing fantasy literature. Garner's works have incorporated elements of mythology and folklore, often drawing from the rich cultural heritage of the British Isles. Several notable novels include 'The Owl Service', which received the Carnegie Medal, and 'Elidor'. In addition to novels, created plays and children's books that reflect a deep connection to the landscape and history of England. Garner's unique storytelling style has garnered a dedicated readership over the decades.
Continue ReadingAntónio Calvário
Portuguese singer and artist
Born
October 17th, 1938 87 years ago
A prominent figure in Portuguese music, began career in the early 1960s. Gained recognition for blending traditional fado with pop music elements. Achieved significant success in the 1960s and 1970s, performing across Europe and gaining a loyal following. Released several albums, contributing to the popularization of Portuguese music on international stages. Worked extensively in the music industry, both as a performer and through collaborations with other artists.
Continue ReadingOliver Rackham
Botanist and academic specializing in ecology
Born
October 17th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 76 years old
An English botanist and academic, focused on the study of woodlands and their management. Emphasized the importance of ancient woodlands in preserving biodiversity and the historical landscape of England. Published works on ecology, landscape history, and environmental policy, including influential texts that raised awareness about woodland conservation. Engaged in teaching and research at various academic institutions, contributing to ecological studies and advancing understanding of natural environments.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 12th
Vittorio Sella
Italian mountaineer and photographer
Born
August 28th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1943 82 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent mountaineer and photographer, contributed extensively to the documentation of mountain landscapes. Focused on high-altitude photography in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, capturing the essence of the Alps and the Himalayas. Participated in several pioneering expeditions, including the first ascent of K2 in 1909. Work combined rigorous mountaineering with artistic photography, influencing the perception of mountainous regions. Authored several books that detailed climbing experiences and stunning visual records of famous peaks.
Continue ReadingJean Drapeau
Canadian politician, former Mayor of Montreal
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1999 26 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 37th Mayor of Montreal for 29 years across two terms from 1954 to 1957 and from 1960 to 1986. Instrumental in the success of Expo 67, which celebrated Canada's centennial and showcased Montreal to the world. Played a significant role in the development of the city’s infrastructure, including the construction of the La Ronde amusement park and the building of the Olympic Stadium for the 1976 Summer Olympics. Advocated for the artistic and cultural advancement of Montreal.
Continue ReadingÉtienne Louis Geoffroy
French entomologist and pharmacist
Born
October 12th, 1725 300 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1810 215 years ago — 84 years old
An influential figure in entomology, contributions included early studies in insect classification and development of the field. Published significant works on the anatomy and physiology of insects. Served as a pharmacist, blending expertise in medicine and natural history. Advancements in understanding insect life cycles laid foundations for future entomological research.
Continue ReadingKim Kahana
Actor and stunt performer
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent actor and stunt performer with a career spanning multiple decades. Gained recognition for participation in numerous film and television projects, often performing complex stunts. Contributed to the entertainment industry through a variety of roles that demonstrated expertise in physical performance. Worked on several notable film productions and television series, showcasing a strong dedication to the craft of stunt work alongside acting.
Continue ReadingUna Stubbs
English actress and dancer in TV and film
Born
May 1st, 1937 88 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2021 4 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1937, an accomplished English actress and dancer. Gained prominence through performances in television and film. Played significant roles in the series 'Till Death Us Do Part' and 'Sherlock'. Also featured in various stage productions, showcasing versatility as a performer. Worked extensively in the entertainment industry, both on-screen and on-stage, contributing to the arts for several decades.
Continue ReadingMeshulim Feish Lowy
Rabbi and author of Jewish texts
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2015 10 years ago — 94 years old
A rabbi and author, contributed significantly to Jewish literature and education. Raised in Hungary, relocated to Canada, where continued religious leadership and community building. Focused on Jewish texts and traditions, advocating education and scholarship within the community. Engaged in various educational initiatives aimed at promoting Jewish knowledge.
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