Neal Walk
Professional basketball player, Phoenix Suns
Born
1948
78 years ago
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
A professional basketball player played as a center in the National Basketball Association (NBA) primarily for the Phoenix Suns. Drafted second overall in the 1969 NBA Draft, excelled with an average of 16.4 points and 11.4 rebounds per game throughout his career. Played for multiple teams, including the New Orleans Jazz and the Detroit Pistons. Retired after the 1976 season, leaving a significant legacy in college basketball as a standout player at the University of Florida.
Drafted second overall in the 1969 NBA Draft
Played for the Phoenix Suns and New Orleans Jazz
Averaged 16.4 points and 11.4 rebounds per game
Other People Who Died on October 4th
Gordon Cooper
Astronaut and Mercury-Atlas 9 pilot
Born
March 6th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2004 21 years ago — 77 years old
An engineer, pilot, and astronaut, this individual played a significant role in the early years of human space exploration. Selected as a NASA astronaut in 1959, he flew in space during the Mercury and Gemini programs. The most notable mission was Mercury-Atlas 9, where he completed 22 orbits around Earth in 1963, making him one of the first Americans to achieve such a feat. This mission held the record for the longest manned spaceflight at the time. After leaving NASA, continued to contribute to the aerospace industry and inspired future generations in engineering and space exploration.
Continue ReadingDoris Belack
Actress in 'Love, Sidney'
Born
February 26th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2011 14 years ago — 85 years old
An American actress with a career spanning over six decades, primarily in television and theatre, gained recognition for roles in various series. Featured prominently in the sitcom 'Love, Sidney,' which aired from 1981 to 1983. Also appeared in notable productions such as 'Rhoda' and 'All in the Family.' Contributed to numerous stage performances, showcasing versatility in acting skills. Engaged in roles that highlighted both comedic and dramatic talents, influencing the landscape of television during her active years.
Continue ReadingJanis Joplin
Singer-songwriter with iconic voice
Born
January 19th, 1943 83 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1970 55 years ago — 27 years old
Born in Port Arthur, Texas, a prominent figure in the 1960s music scene emerged with a distinctive voice and emotional delivery. Rose to fame as the lead singer of Big Brother and the Holding Company, especially with the hit 'Piece of My Heart.' Pursued a solo career, releasing acclaimed albums including 'Cheap Thrills' and 'Pearl.' An influential performer, often associated with the counterculture movement, played an integral role in the Monterey Pop Festival and Woodstock. Joplin's life was marked by struggles with substance abuse, and she tragically died at a young age, leaving a lasting legacy in rock music.
Continue ReadingYu Kuo-hwa
Chinese politician and 23rd Premier
Born
January 10th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2000 25 years ago — 86 years old
Served as the 23rd Premier of the Republic of China from 1989 to 1990. Focused on economic development and modernization during the tenure. Participated in various government roles before becoming Premier, including serving as the Minister of Finance and Minister of the Interior. Played a significant role in Taiwan's political landscape in the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingGünther Rall
German general and Luftwaffe pilot
Born
March 10th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2009 16 years ago — 91 years old
A Luftwaffe fighter pilot during World War II, achieved high recognition for aerial combat skills. Rall served in various capacities within the Luftwaffe, ultimately reaching the rank of general. He flew in numerous battles, contributing significantly to air operations. After the war, he became involved in aviation and flight training, sharing expertise with future generations of pilots.
Continue ReadingSarel Cilliers
South African preacher and activist
Born
September 7th, 1801 225 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1871 154 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1801, this figure was a prominent preacher and activist in South Africa during the 19th century. An influential leader in the Boer community, he played a significant role in the establishment of the Voortrekker movement. Cilliers was a key figure in the Great Trek, where he advocated for the migration of Afrikaans-speaking settlers into the interior of South Africa, seeking to escape British rule. His sermons and writings often inspired the pioneers and provided a sense of purpose and direction during a tumultuous period in South African history. His legacy includes contributions to the cultural and religious identity of Afrikaners.
Continue Reading