Terry Funk
Professional wrestler and actor
A prominent figure in professional wrestling, contributed extensively to the sport from the 1960s through the early 2000s. Gained fame for performing in various wrestling promotions, including World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW). Known for a hard-hitting style and innovative matches, particularly in hardcore wrestling. Also appeared in films such as 'Roadhouse' alongside Patrick Swayze, showcasing versatility beyond the wrestling ring.
Won the NWA World Heavyweight Championship
Popularized hardcore wrestling in ECW
Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame
Other People Born on June 30th
Nellah Massey Bailey
American politician and librarian
Born
June 30th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1956 69 years ago — 62 years old
Served as a librarian and was elected as a member of the Missouri House of Representatives. Contributed to the development of library services in the region. Advocated for education and literacy initiatives throughout her career. Played a significant role in public service, emphasizing the importance of accessible information.
Continue ReadingGeorges Duhamel
French soldier and author
Born
June 30th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
April 13th, 1966 59 years ago — 81 years old
Served in the French Army during World War I, experiencing the harsh realities of war. Gained recognition as a novelist, writing works that explored the complexities of human experience. Authored 'La Découverte de l'Esprit', which garnered praise for its psychological depth. Contributed to the literary world as a member of Académie Française, shaping French literature in the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingDave Van Ronk
Folk singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
June 30th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2002 23 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent figure in the American folk music revival, focused on the Greenwich Village scene during the 1960s. Contributed to the development of folk music with a unique blend of blues, traditional folk, and jazz elements. Released a variety of albums, with 'Inside Dave Van Ronk' and 'Folksinger' highlighting his musical style. Served as a mentor and influence on many younger artists, including Bob Dylan and Joan Baez.
Continue ReadingA. J. Brown
American football wide receiver
Born
June 30th, 1997 28 years ago
A professional American football player. Played as a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL). Selected by the Tennessee Titans in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Achieved significant individual success including multiple 1,000-yard receiving seasons. Recognized for performance in high-stakes games, contributing to the team's playoff runs. Transitioned to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2022 and continued to excel in the role.
Continue ReadingReuben Garrick
Australian Rugby League Player
Born
June 30th, 1997 28 years ago
Professional rugby league player debuted in 2019 for the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles in the National Rugby League (NRL). Played predominantly as a winger. Gained recognition for consistent performance and scoring ability. Contributed significantly to the team's success across multiple seasons.
Continue ReadingEgils Levits
Latvian judge, jurist, and president
Born
June 30th, 1955 70 years ago
A prominent Latvian judicator and academic, served as the 10th President of Latvia from 2019. Specialized in constitutional law, contributed to the development of Latvia's legal framework after its restoration of independence. Actively engaged in European Union matters as a judge at the Court of Justice of the European Union from 2004 to 2014. Played a critical role in various legal reforms in Latvia and held significant positions within the Council of Europe.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 23rd
Birgitta Stenberg
Swedish author and illustrator of children's books
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2014 11 years ago — 82 years old
An author and illustrator contributed significantly to Swedish children's literature. Stenberg published over 30 books and illustrated many others, showcasing a distinctive style that resonated with young readers. The work spanned various themes, often incorporating elements of nature and childhood experiences. Stenberg's renowned works include 'Mamma Mu' series and 'The Little Girl in the Big House.' The storytelling ability combined with engaging illustrations created beloved characters that became staples in Swedish literature.
Continue ReadingJerry Nelson
Puppeteer and voice actor for Sesame Street
Born
July 10th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2012 13 years ago — 78 years old
A puppeteer and voice actor contributed significantly to children's television. Worked primarily with Jim Henson's Muppets and gained recognition for portraying various characters on 'Sesame Street'. Provided the voices and puppetry for iconic characters, including Gobo Fraggle in 'Fraggle Rock' and Count von Count on 'Sesame Street'. Career spanned several decades, leading to a lasting imprint on family entertainment, particularly through the educational children's programming.
Continue ReadingAlfred Eisenstaedt
Photographer known for iconic images
Born
December 6th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1995 30 years ago — 96 years old
Born in Germany and later emigrating to the United States, Alfred Eisenstaedt became a prominent photographer and journalist. He was one of the first staff photographers for Life magazine, where his work gained widespread recognition. His most famous photograph, the V-J Day in Times Square image, captures an iconic moment of a sailor kissing a nurse, symbolizing the end of World War II. Eisenstaedt's style combined photojournalism and fine art, demonstrating the power of candid photography to convey historical moments.
Continue ReadingMichael Kijana Wamalwa
Kenyan politician, 8th Vice President
Born
November 25th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2003 22 years ago — 58 years old
Served as the 8th Vice President of Kenya from 2002 until death in 2003. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Kenya having held various positions including Minister of Tourism and Wildlife. Engaged in legal practice prior to entering politics, focusing on matters related to public service. Was a member of the Kenya African National Union party and contributed to numerous political campaigns during his career. Advocated for democratic reforms and was involved in peace initiatives during periods of political strife in the country.
Continue ReadingDavid Rose
Pianist and conductor of television scores
Born
June 15th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1990 35 years ago — 80 years old
A pianist, composer, and conductor, contributed significantly to the television music landscape. Rose composed and conducted the theme music for the long-running television series "Little House on the Prairie" and was associated with numerous other shows during his career. His prolific output included popular songs and scores that reflected the changing music scene of the mid-20th century. In addition to television, he worked with orchestras and produced albums that showcased his talents as a musician and arranger.
Continue ReadingWilliam Glasser
American psychiatrist and author of books
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2013 12 years ago — 88 years old
As a psychiatrist, contributed to the field of mental health through the development of Reality Therapy and Choice Theory. Authored several influential books, including 'Reality Therapy' and 'Choice Theory,' which emphasized personal responsibility and the importance of relationships. Established the Glasser Quality Schools program to promote student-centered learning and humane education practices.
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