Dick Van Arsdale

American basketball player, All-Star

Dick Van Arsdale - American basketball player, All-Star
Born

February 22nd, 1943
82 years ago

Died

December 16th, 2024
0 years ago — 81 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United States

Links & References

Played basketball professionally in the NBA from 1965 to 1977. Spent the majority of career with the Phoenix Suns. Achieved an All-Star selection in 1970 and established a reputation as a skilled scorer and tenacious defender. After retirement, contributed to the sport as a coach and executive in the Suns' organization.

Played for the Phoenix Suns

Selected as an NBA All-Star in 1970

Contributed to the Suns' coaching staff

Other People Born on February 22nd

Shaun Tait

Australian cricketer and World Cup player
Born
February 22nd, 1983 42 years ago

Debuted in international cricket in 2005 as a fast bowler. Played in all formats of the game, including Test, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and Twenty20 Internationals. Achieved recognition for raw pace and ability to bowl at speeds exceeding 150 km/h. Played a crucial role in Australia's successful campaign during the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup, contributing to the team's championship title. Announced retirement from international cricket in 2016 but continued with domestic leagues and coaching roles.

Continue Reading

Saufatu Sopoanga

Tuvaluan politician, 8th Prime Minister
Born
February 22nd, 1952 73 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2020 4 years ago — 68 years old

Served as the 8th Prime Minister of Tuvalu from 2002 to 2004. Held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Finance and Minister for Foreign Affairs. Focused on issues of climate change and sustainable development during time in office. Worked to raise Tuvalu's profile in international forums and enhance diplomatic relations.

Continue Reading

Clarence 13X

Religious leader, founded Nation of Gods and Earths
Born
February 22nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
1969 56 years ago — 41 years old

A religious leader established the Nation of Gods and Earths, also referred to as the Five Percent Nation, in the 1960s. This movement emphasized a unique interpretation of Islam, seeing its members as the 'Gods' of the planet. The ideology attracted followers primarily in urban communities, offering a distinctive philosophy rooted in self-awareness and empowerment. The teachings incorporated aspects of African heritage and the importance of knowledge of self. The organization has played a significant role in cultural expression, influencing music, particularly hip-hop, and various social movements over the decades.

Continue Reading

Thomas Jane

American actor from 'The Punisher'
Born
February 22nd, 1969 56 years ago

An actor gained recognition for roles in multiple television series and films. Achievements include leading performances in the HBO series 'Hung' and the film 'The Punisher'. Productions showcased a range of characters from drama to action. Career spanned several decades, with appearances in a variety of genres.

Continue Reading

Vijay Singh

Professional Golfer with Major Wins
Born
February 22nd, 1963 62 years ago

Born in Fiji, played professional golf and achieved significant success on the PGA Tour. Started career in the late 1980s and gained prominence during the 1990s and early 2000s. Won the Masters Tournament in 2000, securing a major championship title. Accumulated multiple PGA Tour victories and received accolades for performances.

Continue Reading

Kia Nurse

Basketball player for UConn and Canada
Born
February 22nd, 1996 29 years ago

Played collegiate basketball at the University of Connecticut, winning a national championship in 2016. Has represented Canada in international competitions, participating in the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup and the Olympic Games. Competed professionally in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) with the New York Liberty and the Phoenix Mercury. Notable for contributions on the court and involvement in grassroots basketball programs.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 16th

Don Jardine

Professional wrestler and trainer
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2006 18 years ago — 66 years old

A Canadian professional wrestler and trainer, gained recognition during the 1970s and 1980s. Worked under the ring name 'The Spoiler' and became notable for his masked persona. Achieved success in various wrestling promotions and held multiple championships. Contributed to the development of wrestling talent as a trainer after retiring from in-ring competition.

Continue Reading

Colonel Sanders

Founder of KFC and fried chicken legend
Born
September 9th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1980 44 years ago — 90 years old

Established the fast-food chain Kentucky Fried Chicken, which became a global brand. Developed a secret blend of 11 herbs and spices that contributed to the restaurant's distinctive flavor. Initially operated a roadside gas station and served meals to travelers, later focusing on the fried chicken business. Promoted the brand with a memorable image and personality that resonated with customers. Continued to represent KFC even after selling the franchise, becoming an enduring symbol of the brand.

Continue Reading

Dan Fogelberg

Singer-songwriter known for 'Leader of the Band'
Born
August 13th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2007 17 years ago — 56 years old

A prominent singer-songwriter and guitarist, this individual rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s. The music encompassed elements of folk, rock, and pop, capturing a wide audience. Major hits included 'Longer,' 'Same Old Lang Syne,' and 'Leader of the Band.' The album 'Souvenirs' achieved significant commercial success and featured many beloved tracks. The individual was known for introspective lyrics and melodic compositions, which resonated with listeners across generations. Career highlights featured multiple chart-topping singles and albums that went on to achieve gold and platinum certifications. A dedicated performer, live concerts extended the reach of the music further, showcasing talent across various venues.

Continue Reading

Soe Hok Gie

Indonesian activist and academic scholar
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1969 55 years ago — 27 years old

An activist and academic, played a significant role in advocating for democracy and social justice in Indonesia during the 1960s. Engaged in critical discussions about governmental policies and human rights, contributing to political discourse through writings and lectures. Participated in protests against the government and sought to mobilize the youth toward political engagement. Gie’s life and activism were cut short when he passed away at the age of 26, leaving behind a legacy of commitment to justice and intellectual inquiry.

Continue Reading

Hellmuth Walter

German-American engineer and inventor
Born
August 26th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1980 44 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Germany and later emigrating to the United States, contributed significantly to the development of rocket propulsion systems. Focused on innovative designs for jet engines and high-altitude technologies. Worked on various military projects during World War II and after. Founded a company specializing in aerospace engineering and advanced propulsion technology.

Continue Reading

Haakon IV

King of Norway and ruler during Union
Born
1204 821 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1263 761 years ago — 59 years old

Ruled as king of Norway from 1217 to 1263. Established Norwegian control over the northern regions of the kingdom and further strengthened Norway's position in the Kalmar Union. Successfully defended the kingdom against external threats and managed internal conflicts through a series of reforms. Initiated a period of prosperity and stability that set the foundation for future rulers. Promoted trade and cultural exchanges, significantly influencing medieval Norwegian society.

Continue Reading