Michael Collins
American astronaut and Apollo 11 pilot
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
An American astronaut played a key role in the Apollo 11 mission, which successfully landed the first humans on the Moon in 1969. Serving as the command module pilot, operated the command module Columbia while Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin explored the lunar surface. His contributions to space exploration extended beyond Apollo 11, with earlier missions including Gemini 10. Later, engaged in public advocacy for space exploration and education, emphasizing the importance of scientific progress.
Piloted Apollo 11 command module Columbia
Participated in Gemini 10 mission
Other People Born on October 31st
Asbjørg Borgfelt
Norwegian sculptor, known for public works
Born
October 31st, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1976 50 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent Norwegian sculptor created works that reflect themes of nature and humanity. Received formal artistic training and developed a distinctive style characterized by stylized forms and a deep appreciation for the materials used. Contributed significantly to public art projects throughout Norway, enhancing urban spaces with innovative sculptures. Borgfelt's works continue to be displayed in various public locations and are celebrated for their craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal.
Continue ReadingDarryl Worley
Country Music Singer-Songwriter
Born
October 31st, 1964 61 years ago
Born in 1964, a country music singer-songwriter gained prominence in the early 2000s. Released the album 'Here and Now,' which included the hit single 'Have You Forgotten?' addressing the September 11 attacks. Achieved several top ten hits on the Billboard country charts and earned multiple award nominations throughout the career.
Continue ReadingDavid Ogden Stiers
Actor and voice actor in M*A*S*H
Born
October 31st, 1942 83 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2018 8 years ago — 75 years old
An accomplished actor and voice actor, had a significant career spanning several decades. Best remembered for the role of Charles Emerson Winchester III on the television series M*A*S*H, which aired from 1977 to 1983. Also provided voice work for numerous animated series and films, lending a distinctive character to his roles. Additionally, engaged in music, showcasing talents as a conductor and musician. In later years, continued to appear in various television and film projects, demonstrating versatility as an actor.
Continue ReadingAnthony Wilding
New Zealand tennis player and cricketer
Born
October 31st, 1883 142 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1915 111 years ago — 31 years old
Competed prominently in tennis and cricket early in the 20th century. Achieved significant success in tennis, capturing four Wimbledon singles titles between 1910 and 1913. Gained recognition for outstanding athletic abilities, becoming a leading figure in New Zealand sports. Also represented New Zealand in cricket, showcasing versatility in both individual and team sports. His contributions laid the groundwork for future generations in New Zealand athletics.
Continue ReadingPope Clement XIV
Pope with major papal decrees
Born
October 31st, 1705 320 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1774 251 years ago — 68 years old
Elected pope in 1769, served until 1774. Played a crucial role in the dissolution of the Society of Jesus, leading to the suppression of Jesuit missions globally. Oversaw various reform efforts within the papacy and the Catholic Church during a period of tumultuous political changes in Europe. Engaged in diplomacy to manage relations among Catholic states, particularly in light of rising Enlightenment ideologies. His tenure was marked by significant challenges, including managing opposition from various monarchies and church factions.
Continue ReadingLuís I of Portugal
King of Portugal and the Algarves
Born
October 31st, 1838 187 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1889 136 years ago — 50 years old
Reign spanned from 1861 to 1889, overseeing significant political and social changes in Portugal. Focused on modernizing the Portuguese economy and infrastructure, particularly in transportation and communications. Engaged in efforts to stabilize the monarchy during a time of political turmoil, including a series of constitutional crises and revolutions. Actively involved in cultural and scientific initiatives, promoting the arts and supporting the establishment of more educational institutions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 28th
Steve Howe
Baseball player, 1980 AL Rookie of the Year
Born
March 10th, 1958 68 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2006 20 years ago — 48 years old
This individual played Major League Baseball primarily as a relief pitcher. He debuted in 1980 with the New York Yankees, winning the American League Rookie of the Year award. Career highlights include playing for the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he won the World Series in 1981. Throughout his career, this player faced various challenges, including substance abuse issues, which affected his tenure with multiple teams.
Continue ReadingJenny Diski
English author and screenwriter
Born
July 8th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2016 10 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1947, this writer published numerous novels, essays, and memoirs. Influenced by her experiences, themes of mental health and personal reflection are prevalent in her work. Contributions to literature included several novels, essays for notable publications, and screenwriting. Recognition included her literary work celebrated in various reviews and awards.
Continue ReadingRichard Pratt
Businessman known for packaging company
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2009 17 years ago — 75 years old
Co-founded Visy Industries, a leading packaging company in Australia. Oversaw its expansion into a multi-billion dollar enterprise specializing in recycling and paper packaging. Contributed significantly to the Australian economy through innovations in packaging technology and sustainable practices. Engaged in various philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and community support. Involved in notable controversies concerning tax practices.
Continue ReadingEdgar Laprade
Ice hockey player with the New York Rangers
Born
October 10th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2014 12 years ago — 94 years old
A Canadian ice hockey player played predominantly for the New York Rangers in the National Hockey League (NHL). Laprade had a successful career that spanned from the late 1940s to the early 1950s. He was recognized for his playmaking abilities and scoring talent. After retiring as a player, he contributed to the sport as a coach in various capacities. Laprade's hockey journey included participation in several important matches, ultimately leading to his induction into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingPaulo Vanzolini
Brazilian singer-songwriter and zoologist
Born
April 25th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2013 13 years ago — 89 years old
A Brazilian singer-songwriter and zoologist contributed significantly to both music and science. Focused on samba and MPB (Música Popular Brasileira), composed many songs that resonated with Brazilian culture. Vanzolini's notable works include 'Ronda' and 'Volta por Cima'. Additionally, a respected zoologist, specialized in herpetology, particularly the study of reptiles and amphibians. Conducted extensive research and published several scientific papers in the field.
Continue ReadingCarl Friedrich von Weizsäcker
Physicist and philosopher with key theories
Born
June 28th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2007 19 years ago — 94 years old
A German physicist and philosopher contributed significantly to nuclear physics and the philosophy of science. Worked on the development of nuclear weapons during World War II as part of the German atomic bomb project. After the war, shifted focus to philosophical inquiries, particularly in the areas of ethics and the implications of scientific advancements. Co-authored important texts exploring the relationship between science and philosophy and the responsibilities of scientists in society. Held a prominent academic career, influencing various fields of study through lectures and publications.
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