Ray Meyer

Basketball coach at DePaul University

Ray Meyer - Basketball coach at DePaul University
Born

December 18th, 1913
111 years ago

Died

March 17th, 2006
18 years ago — 92 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United States

Links & References

Coached the DePaul Blue Demons men's basketball team from 1942 to 1984. Directed the team to a record of 724 wins and 354 losses. Achieved significant success in the NCAA Tournament, leading the team to the Final Four in 1979. Instrumental in developing many players who went on to have successful professional careers.

Coached DePaul to the NCAA Final Four in 1979

Achieved 724 career wins as head coach

Other People Born on December 18th

Trish Stratus

Professional wrestler and actress
Born
December 18th, 1975 49 years ago

A celebrated professional wrestler and actress, this individual made a significant mark in WWE, where she was a seven-time Women's Champion. Transitioning from wrestling, she also pursued an acting career, appearing in television series such as 'Mutant X'. The impact on women's wrestling is recognized through various accolades received during and after her career. Further contributions include promotional work and business ventures in the fitness industry, reflecting a commitment to health and wellness.

Continue Reading

Ron White

Comedian and Blue Collar Comedy star
Born
December 18th, 1956 68 years ago

This individual gained prominence as a stand-up comedian, particularly recognized as a member of the Blue Collar Comedy Tour alongside Jeff Foxworthy, Bill Engvall, and Larry the Cable Guy. His comedy style often incorporates storytelling and personal experiences. The comedian's cigar-smoking persona, along with his Southern drawl, contributed to a distinctive comedic brand. Tours and specials, including 'You Can't Fix Stupid' and 'Ron White: Behavioral Problems', showcased his humor and ability to connect with audiences. He has also appeared in feature films and television shows, further enhancing his visibility in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Bobby Keys

Saxophone player for iconic rock bands
Born
December 18th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2014 10 years ago — 70 years old

Saxophone player contributed to the sound of several major rock bands throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Keys played with The Rolling Stones on multiple albums and tours, adding his signature brass sound to hits like 'Brown Sugar' and 'Sweet Virginia.' He also collaborated with artists such as Eric Clapton, Joe Cocker, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, showcasing versatility across various musical genres. His work laid the foundation for many rock arrangements that incorporated the saxophone as a prominent element.

Continue Reading

Matt McGrath

Irish-American hammer thrower champion
Born
December 18th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 66 years old

Competed in the hammer throw event, primarily during the early 20th century. Achieved significant success in various athletic competitions, including the 1908 and 1912 Olympics. Represented the United States in international events, showcasing remarkable skill and technique in the hammer throw discipline. Set multiple records during career, solidifying a legacy in the sport.

Continue Reading

Charles Griffin

American general during Civil War
Born
December 18th, 1825 199 years ago
Died
1876 149 years ago — 51 years old

Served as a Union general in the American Civil War. Commanded troops during significant battles such as the Battle of Gettysburg and the Battle of the Wilderness. Held the rank of Brigadier General and contributed to several military campaigns in the war.

Continue Reading

Alejandro Sanz

Spanish singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
December 18th, 1968 56 years ago

Born in Spain, this artist began musical pursuits at a young age, releasing debut album 'Los Chulos Son Pa' Escucharlos' in 1991. The album garnered attention and laid the foundation for a successful career. Over the years, this musician produced several critically acclaimed albums, blending flamenco, pop, and rock influences. Achievements include multiple Grammy Awards and Latin Grammy Awards, showcasing contributions to the music industry. The song 'Corazón Partío' gained immense popularity in Spanish-speaking countries, becoming one of the artist's signature tracks.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 17th

Alex Chilton

Singer-songwriter, guitarist, Big Star
Born
December 28th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2010 14 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent figure in the music industry, contributed significantly to rock music as a singer-songwriter and guitarist. Gained early recognition as the lead vocalist for the band The Box Tops, achieving a major hit with 'The Letter'. Later co-founded the influential power pop band Big Star, which cultivated a devoted following despite limited commercial success during its initial run. Also pursued a solo career, marked by a distinctive style and notable collaborations.

Continue Reading

Sophia of Sweden

Duchess of Saxe-Lauenburg
Born
1547 478 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1611 413 years ago — 64 years old

Born into Swedish royal lineage, the individual held the title of Duchess of Saxe-Lauenburg. Marriage to Duke Francis II of Saxe-Lauenburg reinforced political alliances. This union produced several children who contributed to various European noble houses. The duchess played a significant role in the court's social dynamics and family affairs, strengthening ties between Sweden and Saxe-Lauenburg. Her life and contributions occurred during a time of significant political and religious change in Europe.

Continue Reading

Charlotte Auerbach

Scottish geneticist and zoologist
Born
May 14th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1994 30 years ago — 94 years old

Born in Germany, later settled in Scotland as a prominent geneticist and zoologist. Conducted foundational research on the mutagenic effects of chemical agents on genes, particularly in fruit flies. Contributed to the understanding of genetic mutations and their implications for heredity. Worked closely with significant figures in genetics and participated in the establishment of the field within Scotland. Authored numerous research papers and became a noted voice in discussions about genetics and ethical considerations.

Continue Reading

Sid Fleischman

Author and Screenwriter of The Ghost Fox
Born
March 16th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2010 14 years ago — 90 years old

An accomplished author and screenwriter, contributions spanned literature and film. Wrote over 30 books, including the children's novel 'The Ghost Fox,' which received critical acclaim. Worked extensively in screenwriting, creating scripts for TV series and films. Achievements included winning the prestigious Newbery Medal for 'The Whipping Boy' in 1987, recognizing excellence in children's literature. Engaged in storytelling that combined adventure with humor, influencing young readers for decades.

Continue Reading

Văn Tiến Dũng

Vietnamese general and Minister of Defence
Born
May 2nd, 1917 107 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2002 22 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the sixth Minister of Defence of Vietnam from 1974 to 1987. Played a significant role in the Vietnam War, commanding the North Vietnamese Army during key offensives. Participated in various military strategies leading to the reunification of Vietnam. After the war, contributed to the military reform policies within the country until retirement. Influenced defense policies during a pivotal time in Vietnam's history.

Continue Reading

Go-Saga

Emperor of Japan during the Kamakura period.
Born
1220 805 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1272 752 years ago — 52 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1242, serving as emperor until 1246. His reign was characterized by the influence of the Kamakura shogunate, a military government that managed the political landscape of Japan. Documented efforts included promoting the engagement of the imperial court in matters of state and overseeing the early stages of the Nanboku-chō period, which marked a division in Imperial succession. After his abdication, he became a significant figure in the court and continued to exert influence over imperial affairs until his death in 1272.

Continue Reading