Jerry Grote
Baseball player and All-Star catcher
Born
1942
84 years ago
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
A professional baseball player, primarily played as a catcher during a career that spanned from 1962 to 1972. Most of the career was spent with the New York Mets, contributing to the team's first World Series championship in 1969. Also played for the Houston Astros and the Chicago White Sox. Recognized for defensive skills and strong leadership on the field, earned a spot in the MLB All-Star Game in 1970.
Played a key role in the 1969 World Series championship with the New York Mets
Selected as an MLB All-Star in 1970
Other People Who Died on April 7th
Harald Ertl
Race car driver and journalist
Born
August 31st, 1948 77 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1982 43 years ago — 33 years old
Competed in Formula One during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Participated in 29 Grands Prix, with a best finish of sixth place. Also worked as a journalist, providing insights and analysis on motorsport events. His tenure in racing was cut short by an untimely death in a plane crash.
Continue ReadingLes Blank
Documentary filmmaker and producer
Born
November 27th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent American director and producer, noted for a body of work that celebrates culture, music, and the arts. Focused on documentary filmmaking, his style incorporated immersive storytelling and vibrant visuals. Major works include the award-winning documentary 'Marley' which explores the life of reggae musician Bob Marley. His films often highlighted regional cultures, showing traditional music and the lives of ordinary people. Throughout his career, Blank contributed significantly to the documentary genre, influencing both filmmakers and audiences with his unique approach to storytelling.
Continue ReadingDave Arneson
Game designer, co-created Dungeons & Dragons
Born
1947 79 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2009 16 years ago — 62 years old
A game designer specialized in tabletop role-playing games. Contributed significantly to the gaming industry by co-creating the seminal game Dungeons & Dragons alongside Gary Gygax. This game introduced innovative mechanics and storytelling elements that set the foundation for modern role-playing games. The first edition was published in 1974, capturing the imagination of countless players and influencing the development of future tabletop and video game genres. Arneson also worked on various other games and expansions, showcasing creativity in game design.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste de La Salle
French priest and educational reformer
Born
April 30th, 1651 374 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1719 306 years ago — 67 years old
A priest and educational reformer contributed significantly to the development of education in France. Founded the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools in 1680, focusing on the education of the poor and the creation of a system of schools. Established a curriculum that emphasized the importance of education for all children, regardless of social status. Canonized as a saint in 1900, recognized for dedication to teaching and improving education standards.
Continue ReadingLee Brilleaux
Musician; frontman of Dr. Feelgood
Born
1952 74 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1994 31 years ago — 42 years old
An English singer-songwriter and guitarist played a key role in the pub rock scene of the 1970s. As the frontman of the band Dr. Feelgood, produced a gritty and energetic style that helped define the genre. The band's debut album, 'Down by the Jetty,' showcased a raw sound that captured the attention of audiences and critics alike. Known for the signature song 'Milk and Alcohol,' which highlighted the band's influence in the rhythm and blues revival. Continued to perform and record with the band until his death in 1994, leaving a lasting legacy in British rock music.
Continue ReadingBerengar I of Italy
King of Italy and Holy Roman Emperor
Died
April 7th, 924 1101 years ago — None years old
Ruled as King of Italy from 888 until death in 924 and held the title of Holy Roman Emperor from 915. His reign was marked by conflicts with rival factions and attempts to consolidate power in northern Italy. Berengar I faced ongoing challenges from various nobles and external threats, particularly from the Saracens and the Magyars. His efforts to unify and stabilize the region included military campaigns and political alliances. Berengar I was ousted briefly in 901 but later regained control. His reign was a significant period in early medieval Italian history, characterized by fragmentation and the competition for power among various tribal entities.
Continue Reading