Gaston Rébuffat

Mountaineer and author of famed ascent.

Gaston Rébuffat - Explorers & Adventurers born 1921
Born

1921
105 years ago

Died
Category

Explorers & Adventurers

Country

France

Links & References

A prominent figure in the world of mountaineering, this individual contributed significantly to alpine climbing literature and practices. Authoring essential guides and books on climbing, including the acclaimed work 'St. Exupéry's Mountains'. Participated in many notable ascents, including the first winter ascent of the north face of the Matterhorn and numerous climbs in the Mont Blanc Massif. Established reputation as a skilled climber and an inspiring writer, blending narratives of adventure with technical insights into the challenges of high-altitude climbing.

First winter ascent of the north face of the Matterhorn

Authored 'St. Exupéry's Mountains'

Other People Who Died on May 31st

Hans Keilson

Psychoanalyst and author of 'The Death of the Adversary'
Born
1909 117 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2011 14 years ago — 102 years old

Born in 1909, a German-Dutch psychoanalyst and author focused on the psychological effects of trauma and persecution. Emigrated to the Netherlands in 1936 due to the rise of the Nazi regime. His experiences as a Jewish refugee informed his work, particularly in relation to themes of survival and human resilience. Keilson developed significant theories on the psychological ramifications of living in a hostile environment and contributed to the understanding of trauma in literature and psychoanalysis. In addition to his clinical practice, he wrote several notable works highlighting these themes, with 'The Death of the Adversary' gaining recognition for its exploration of moral conflict and existential struggle. Keilson continued to write and publish until his later years, contributing to both literary and psychoanalytic discussions.

Continue Reading

Randall B. Kester

American lawyer and judge
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2012 13 years ago — 96 years old

Served as a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado. Appointed as a district judge in 1972 and assumed senior status in 1996. Kester contributed to several landmark decisions in various legal areas during a career that spanned several decades. Engaged in private legal practice prior to becoming a judge and served in various judicial capacities throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Colin Cantwell

Concept Artist for Star Wars
Born
1932 94 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2022 3 years ago — 90 years old

A concept artist and director, this individual contributed to the visual design of several iconic sci-fi projects. Work included designing spacecraft and many other elements for the original Star Wars film. Collaborative efforts spanned across various mediums, influencing the science fiction genre. This individual also worked on projects such as 2001: A Space Odyssey and provided design services for television shows and commercial ventures.

Continue Reading

Carla Lane

Television writer of 'Bread' and 'Butterflies'
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2016 9 years ago — 88 years old

A television writer created several popular British sitcoms. 'Bread' aired from 1986 to 1991, focusing on a working-class family in Liverpool, and garnered significant viewership and critical attention. 'Butterflies', which ran from 1978 to 1983, explored the life of a suburban housewife experiencing a mid-life crisis. Lane's distinctive voice and humor resonated with audiences, making her works significant in the landscape of British television comedy.

Continue Reading

Lewis Katz

Businessman and philanthropist
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2014 11 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent American businessman and philanthropist, contributed to various industries and causes throughout his career. Co-founded the New Jersey Nets and played a pivotal role in the team's relocation to Brooklyn, becoming one of the NFL's significant players in the business aspect of sports. Invested in a wide range of enterprises, including media, real estate, and aviation. Made substantial philanthropic contributions, particularly in education and healthcare, including significant donations to Temple University. Passed away in an airplane crash in 2014.

Continue Reading

Rupert Neudeck

German journalist and humanitarian leader
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2016 9 years ago — 77 years old

A journalist and humanitarian, contributed significantly to humanitarian work. Co-founded the organization Cap Anamur, which focused on providing help to refugees and disaster victims. Actively campaigned for global human rights and engaged in reporting from conflict zones, raising awareness about issues faced by displaced individuals. Frequently expressed views on the necessity of humanitarian assistance and social justice through media platforms and public speaking engagements.

Continue Reading