Dave Smith
Baseball player and coach, two-time All-Star
Born
1955
70 years ago
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
Played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball for the Houston Astros from 1980 to 1992. Made significant contributions to the team and was recognized for outstanding performances. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, providing guidance to aspiring players. Inducted into the Texas League Hall of Fame for contributions to the sport.
Selected as an All-Star in 1986 and 1988
Posted a career ERA of 3.30
Coached in the minor leagues after retirement
Other People Who Died on December 17th
Leopold II of Belgium
Belgian King and Congo Free State founder
Born
April 9th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1909 116 years ago — 74 years old
Reigned as King of the Belgians from 1865 to 1909. Established the Congo Free State as a personal possession, which was marked by extensive exploitation of natural resources and forced labor. Under his rule, significant economic development occurred in the region, but at a devastating cost to the local population.
Continue ReadingEddie Acuff
American actor in 'Davy Crockett'
Born
June 3rd, 1903 122 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1956 69 years ago — 53 years old
Acuff was an American actor active in film and television during the mid-20th century. He appeared in numerous westerns and comedies, often taking on character roles. Notably, Acuff featured in Disney's miniseries 'Davy Crockett' as well as other films such as 'The Caddy' and 'Davy Crockett: King of the Wild Frontier'. His works were characterized by a blend of humor and adventure, contributing to the popular culture of the time.
Continue ReadingAlicia Boole Stott
Mathematician and theorist on geometry
Born
June 8th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1940 85 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed to the field of mathematics with a focus on geometric theories and four-dimensional space. Developed projections of higher dimensions and worked on the study of polyhedra, particularly regular polytopes. Authored several papers detailing complex mathematical concepts and geometric visualization techniques. Engaged closely with the mathematical community through correspondence and collaboration with other mathematicians of the era.
Continue ReadingRalph Coates
English international footballer
Born
April 26th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2010 15 years ago — 64 years old
Played as a winger in professional football. Started the career at local clubs before joining Burnley in 1963. Made significant contributions to the team, helping them secure the FA Cup in 1962. Later transferred to Tottenham Hotspur, where achievements included winning the UEFA Cup in 1972. Represented England at the international level, earning multiple caps during the 1970s.
Continue ReadingFreddy Breck
German singer and news anchor
Born
January 21st, 1942 83 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2008 17 years ago — 66 years old
Breck was a German singer, producer, and news anchor, primarily active in the 1970s and 1980s. Achieving notable success in the pop music scene, he released multiple albums featuring a blend of pop and schlager music. His most recognized hit was 'Oh, Marie', which contributed to his popularity in German-speaking countries. In addition to music, he worked as a news anchor, showcasing his versatility in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingSammy Baugh
American football player and coach
Born
March 17th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2008 17 years ago — 94 years old
Played as a quarterback for the Washington Redskins from 1937 to 1952. Achieved three NFL championships in 1937, 1942, and 1943. Also served as a coach after retirement from playing, influencing the game through his strategic insights and leadership. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963.
Continue Reading