Dave Smith
Baseball player and coach, two-time All-Star
Born
1955
71 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
Dieter Grau
Scientist and engineer in aerospace
Born
April 24th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 101 years old
Born in Germany and later moving to the United States, a prominent aerospace scientist and engineer contributed significantly to advancements in aerodynamics and fluid mechanics. Received a PhD in engineering and involved in various groundbreaking projects in aerospace technology. Worked for NASA and contributed to research that advanced space exploration efforts during the mid-20th century. His research played a vital role in improving flight safety and efficiency in aeronautical engineering.
Continue ReadingCharles Winckler
Danish tug of war competitor
Born
April 9th, 1867 159 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1932 93 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1867, a prominent athlete in tug of war, discus, and shot put. Competed in the 1900 Summer Olympics, where achieved recognition for participation in the tug of war event. Contributed to Danish sports, particularly in strength athletics. Excelled in throwing events during a competitive career that spanned several years, representing Denmark in various competitions.
Continue ReadingTom Wesselmann
American painter of pop art
Born
February 23rd, 1931 95 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2004 21 years ago — 73 years old
An influential American painter and sculptor, this artist was a prominent figure in the pop art movement, known for incorporating elements of commercial culture in artwork. The series Great American Nude features bold colors and simplified forms, directly addressing themes of consumerism and sexuality. Throughout a career spanning several decades, the artist explored the intersection of fine art and everyday life, often utilizing assemblage techniques. The artwork reflected modern American culture, tackling subjects from advertising to personal desire. This artist's work has been important in establishing a narrative around consumer culture in the 20th century.
Continue ReadingWilliam Shiels
Politician and 16th Premier of Victoria
Born
December 3rd, 1848 177 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1904 121 years ago — 56 years old
Born in Ireland and emigrated to Australia, Shiels became a prominent politician in Victoria. He served as the 16th Premier of Victoria from 1892 to 1893. His time in office was marked by efforts to improve social services and infrastructure in the region. Throughout a long political career, Shiels held various positions in the Victorian government, contributing to legislative developments in the late 19th century.
Continue ReadingLeopold II of Belgium
Belgian King and Congo Free State founder
Born
April 9th, 1835 191 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 ReadingMarisa Paredes
Spanish film actress with major roles
Born
April 3rd, 1946 80 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2024 1 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1946, a prominent Spanish film actress. Started a career in the 1970s, gaining recognition in Spanish cinema. Worked with notable directors like Pedro Almodóvar and participated in acclaimed films. Gained international acclaim through contributions to both Spanish and foreign films, showcasing strong performances across genres.
Continue Reading