Rick Parfitt
English guitarist and songwriter with Status Quo
A prominent guitarist and songwriter, made significant contributions to rock music as a member of the band Status Quo. The band achieved commercial success with a series of hit singles and albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Parfitt's guitar work and songwriting played a central role in the band’s distinctive boogie rock sound. Frequently collaborated with bandmate Francis Rossi in songwriting and performing. Continued to tour and record with Status Quo well into the 21st century, gaining international recognition.
Co-wrote hits like 'Rockin' All Over the World'
Performed with Status Quo at major music festivals
Other People Born on October 12th
Magnus Magnusson
Icelandic journalist and popular author
Born
October 12th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2007 19 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent journalist and author, contributed significantly to Icelandic literature and media. Served as a television presenter for the quiz show 'Mastermind,' which became a defining feature of televised trivia in the UK. Authored numerous books on Icelandic history, culture, and travel, enhancing the global understanding of the country's heritage. Worked extensively in journalism, notably as a reporter and editor, shaping public discourse through articles and broadcasts.
Continue ReadingBernardo Pisano
Italian priest and composer of sacred music
Born
October 12th, 1490 535 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1548 478 years ago — 57 years old
Served as a priest and made significant contributions to sacred music during the Renaissance. Composed several motets and served as a music teacher, influencing the musical landscape of the time. His works were performed in various religious settings, highlighting the fusion of liturgical text and melody. Held a prominent position within the ecclesiastical community as a scholar and a composer, contributing to both music and formal education.
Continue ReadingAl Held
Abstract painter and educator
Born
October 12th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2005 20 years ago — 76 years old
An American painter and academic, this individual became a prominent figure in the field of abstract art. Work included large-scale canvases characterized by geometric shapes and bold colors. Held was a member of the New York School and contributed to the evolution of geometric abstraction from the 1960s onward. In addition to painting, engaged in teaching as a professor at notable institutions, influencing a new generation of artists. Exhibited widely across the United States and internationally.
Continue ReadingLester Dent
Author of Doc Savage series
Born
October 12th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1959 66 years ago — 54 years old
Developed the character Doc Savage, a legendary hero in magazines and novels. Contributed significantly to the pulp fiction genre in the 1930s and 1940s. Created intricate plots and adventurous scenarios that captivated readers. Influenced the development of superhero narratives and inspired future writers in the genre.
Continue ReadingMarvin Ogunjimi
Belgian footballer and striker
Born
October 12th, 1987 38 years ago
Professional footballer played as a striker, starting his career at Genk. Achieved success with the team, contributing to their Belgian Pro League title in 2011. Also played for clubs including Real Mallorca, and had a notable stint at the national level with Belgium's U21 team. Later played for various teams in lower divisions throughout Europe.
Continue ReadingJimmy Burke
Baseball player and manager.
Born
October 12th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1942 83 years ago — 67 years old
Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1913 to 1920. Managed teams in the American Association after retirement from playing. Contributed significantly to the sport both as a player and a manager, shaping players and strategies during a transformative period in baseball's history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 24th
Richard Perry
American record producer and musician
Born
June 18th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2024 1 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent record producer, this individual has worked with a variety of artists across different musical genres. Contributions include producing albums for notable musicians and achieving commercial success throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Collaborations involved working with established names such as Barbra Streisand and Diana Ross. The work consistently achieved high sales and recognition in the music industry. Additionally, produced hit songs that charted on the Billboard Hot 100. Contributions to the field of music production include innovation in sound techniques and fostering the careers of emerging talents.
Continue ReadingWilliam C. Schneider
Aerospace engineer and inventor
Born
December 24th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1999 26 years ago — 76 years old
An aerospace engineer contributed significantly to the development of various aircraft and space systems. Played a key role in the design and implementation of advanced aerospace technologies. Engaged in numerous projects that advanced national defense capabilities and improved commercial aviation. Actively participated in research initiatives and collaborated with multiple organizations to enhance understanding of aerodynamics and propulsion systems.
Continue ReadingBurt Baskin
Co-founder of Baskin-Robbins ice cream
Born
December 17th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1967 58 years ago — 54 years old
Co-founded an ice cream franchise famous for its variety of flavors. Developed the concept of '31 flavors' to offer a different flavor for each day of the month, contributing significantly to the ice cream industry. Expanded the brand through innovative marketing and franchising, establishing hundreds of locations across the United States and internationally. Led the company to become a prominent name in ice cream retail.
Continue ReadingAdolphe d'Archiac
Paleontologist and geologist
Born
September 24th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1868 157 years ago — 66 years old
A French paleontologist and geologist contributed extensively to the study of fossils and geological formations. Worked on the classification of fossil species and the understanding of the stratigraphy of various regions in France. Published works on paleontology that influenced geologic studies in the 19th century. Served as a member of the French Geological Society and participated in various geological investigations in France.
Continue ReadingRoger III of Sicily
King of Sicily and crusader leader
Born
1175 851 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1193 832 years ago — 18 years old
Ruled as King of Sicily from 1105 to 1134. Played a crucial role in the Crusades, leading his forces in military campaigns. Successfully defended Sicily from external threats and internal rebellions. Built and strengthened alliances with neighboring powers, solidifying his reign. Contributed to the cultural and political landscape of Sicily during his rule, influencing the region's stability and growth.
Continue ReadingCharles Gondouin
Rugby player and tug of war competitor
Born
July 21st, 1875 150 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1947 78 years ago — 72 years old
Competed in rugby and tug of war at an elite level. Represented France in rugby union and was part of the national side during various championships. Achieved recognition in tug of war competitions, highlighting versatility in sports. Played a significant role in the development of both sports in France during the early 20th century.
Continue Reading