Larry Walters

Truck driver and amateur pilot with balloons

Larry Walters - Performers & Entertainers born 1949
Born

1949
77 years ago

Died
Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

An American truck driver ascended into the sky in a homemade flight apparatus composed of helium-filled balloons. The flight, which occurred on July 2, 1982, captured significant media attention as it reached an altitude of approximately 15,000 feet. This endeavor, often referred to as 'Lawn Chair Larry', showcased an unorthodox approach to personal aviation. The incident led to regulatory discussions regarding airspace usage by amateur aviators. After the flight, continued interest in his story resulted in appearances on television talk shows.

Ascended to 15,000 feet with balloons

Featured on television talk shows

Other People Who Died on October 6th

Anwar Sadat

Egyptian politician; Nobel Peace Prize winner
Born
December 25th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1981 44 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the third President of Egypt from 1970 until assassination in 1981. Implemented significant economic reforms and promoted a policy of open-door economic strategy. Initiated peace talks with Israel, culminating in the Camp David Accords in 1978 and the Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty in 1979. Played a crucial role in shifting Egypt’s foreign policy towards the West and established diplomatic relations with the United States.

Continue Reading

Tod Browning

American director of horror films
Born
July 12th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1962 63 years ago — 82 years old

A significant filmmaker in the horror genre, contributed to early cinema with groundbreaking work. Directed the controversial film 'Freaks' in 1932, which featured real-life circus performers. Began career as an actor before transitioning to directing, collaborating with renowned stars of the silent film era. Created a unique aesthetic that combined elements of the macabre with dark humor. Produced films that explored themes of monstrosity and human nature, leaving a lasting influence on horror cinema.

Continue Reading

Vladimir Shlapentokh

Sociologist and political scientist
Born
October 19th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 6th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old

Born in Ukraine, this individual contributed to the fields of sociology, history, and political science. Emigrating to the United States, their academic work focused on Soviet society and post-Soviet transformations. Significant positions included teaching at notable universities. Published works critically examined political behaviors and societal changes in Eastern Europe. The research provided insights into the political culture and dynamics of the region during and after the Soviet era.

Continue Reading

Johan Neeskens

Footballer and manager; World Cup finalist
Born
September 15th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
October 6th, 2024 1 years ago — 73 years old

A significant figure in the world of football, contributed as both a player and a manager. Played as a midfielder for clubs such as Ajax and FC Barcelona. Represented the Netherlands national team, participating in the 1974 and 1978 FIFA World Cups. Served as a coach for various teams after retirement, including the Dutch national team at youth levels.

Continue Reading

Phyllis Nicolson

Mathematician and academic in England
Born
September 21st, 1917 108 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1968 57 years ago — 51 years old

Contributions included research in mathematics and work in mathematical education. Served as a senior editor for a major mathematical journal, influencing the field significantly. Held a professorship and played a key role in shaping mathematical curricula at the university level. Contributed to various mathematical conferences and publications, enhancing collaboration among mathematicians.

Continue Reading

David Marks

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 22nd, 1948 77 years ago
Died
October 6th, 2017 8 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1948, the career in music began in the early 1960s as a guitarist for the Beach Boys. Contributed to the band's early sound and recorded on their iconic albums such as 'Pet Sounds' and 'Surfin' U.S.A.' After leaving the band, engaged in various solo projects and collaborated with multiple artists. Later reunited with the Beach Boys and participated in tours and recordings, maintaining a connection to the band's legacy.

Continue Reading