Bill Durnan
Ice hockey player and coach, 1945 Hart Trophy

Born
January 22nd, 1916
109 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1972
52 years ago — 56 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
Canada
Links & References
Played as a goaltender in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Montreal Canadiens from 1943 to 1949. Achieved significant success, winning the Hart Trophy as the NHL's Most Valuable Player in 1945. After retirement, transitioned to coaching in various leagues, including a head coach role in the Eastern Professional Hockey League. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1976, recognizing contributions to the sport.
Won Hart Trophy in 1945
Played for Montreal Canadiens
Inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame in 1976
Other People Born on January 22nd
Bill O'Neill
Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball. Competed for teams including the Philadelphia Athletics and the Chicago White Sox during the early 1900s. Achieved a batting average of .276 over his career. Participated in the 1906 World Series with the Chicago White Sox.
Continue ReadingGeorge Balanchine
A prominent choreographer in ballet, created many influential works that shaped modern dance. Co-founded the New York City Ballet and served as its artistic director. Developed a unique style integrating classical ballet with contemporary themes. Worked with composers like Igor Stravinsky and Leonard Bernstein to create innovative ballets. 'The Nutcracker' remains one of the most performed ballets worldwide, and his other significant works include 'Apollo' and 'Serenade'.
Continue ReadingTom Jones
American baseball player and manager, participated in Major League Baseball from 1900 to 1909. Played primarily as an infielder for teams including the Philadelphia Athletics and the Chicago Cubs. Transitioned to managerial roles after playing, leading various minor league teams. Contributed to the sport through both playing and management.
Continue ReadingPaul Bew
Specialized in modern Irish history, with a focus on political issues in Northern Ireland. Contributed to the understanding of Irish nationalism and the complexities of the peace process. Published numerous works that explored the historical context of social and political movements in the region. Served as a professor of politics at Queen's University Belfast, shaping the academic discourse on contemporary Irish affairs.
Continue ReadingDJ Jazzy Jeff
DJ and producer gained prominence in the late 1980s as part of the hip hop duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince. The duo released several albums, earning a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance for the track "Parents Just Don't Understand". In addition to the duo's success, he collaborated with various artists and produced numerous tracks across genres. DJ Jazzy Jeff contributed to the development of hip hop music and DJ culture, showcasing skills in turntablism and remixing. He also created his own record label, A Touch of Jazz, which facilitated the growth of other artists.
Continue ReadingDiana Douglas
Born in 1923, this British-American actress gained recognition for her work in film and television. Prominent roles included appearances in 'The Red Danube' and the television series 'The Detectives'. Throughout a career spanning several decades, she showcased talent in both supporting and lead roles, contributing to various productions in Hollywood and television. Continuing to act into her later years, she maintained a presence in the entertainment industry until her retirement.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 31st
Joseph Hooker
A senior officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War, contributed to notable battles and campaigns. Commanded the Army of the Potomac during the Battle of Chancellorsville. Served in multiple engagements including the Battle of Antietam. Experienced a mix of successes and setbacks in leadership roles throughout the conflict. His strategies influenced military tactics in various operations.
Continue ReadingVictor Amadeus II
Served as Duke of Savoy from 1700 to 1730, later became King of Sicily in 1713. Played a significant role in the War of the Spanish Succession, initially supporting the Grand Alliance against France and later aligning with France. His reign was marked by efforts to modernize the state and consolidate power, enhancing the region's infrastructure and economy. After his abdication, Victor Amadeus spent his remaining years in exile, making contributions to the governance of Savoy until his death.
Continue ReadingPeter Stumpp
A farmer from Germany, engaged in agriculture, and gained notoriety as an alleged serial killer in the late 16th century. Stumpp was accused of multiple murders and cannibalism, which led to his trial and execution. The case attracted significant attention due to the gruesome nature of the allegations, and it raised questions about the legal and social systems of the time.
Continue ReadingTed Sorensen
A prominent lawyer and advisor served as the 8th White House Counsel during the Kennedy administration. Played a key role in shaping presidential speeches, including the iconic inaugural address delivered by President Kennedy in 1961. Contributed significantly to the development of policies during a pivotal era in American history, particularly during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Authored several books on politics and political communication.
Continue ReadingJohn Houseman
Born in Romania and later moving to the United States, a prominent actor and producer gained recognition for theatrical works and films. Won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the role in 'The Paper Chase'. Worked in both stage and film, bringing classical training to a new audience. Served as a mentor to many young actors and was celebrated for distinctive voice and commanding presence on screen.
Continue ReadingRiver Phoenix
This actor and activist gained prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s through impactful performances in films. Achievements included lead roles in 'Stand by Me' and 'My Own Private Idaho', demonstrating significant talent at a young age. The dedication to social causes and environmental issues marked his activism. Pioneering work in the entertainment industry included influential performances that resonated with audiences and critics alike. His untimely death at a young age added to his legacy as a talented artist.
Continue Reading