Turk Broda
Ice Hockey Player and Coach with Leafs
Born in 1914, a prominent ice hockey player and coach contributed significantly to the sport. Played as a goaltender for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the National Hockey League (NHL) from 1936 to 1952, achieving considerable success. Secured five Stanley Cup championships with the Maple Leafs in the years 1942, 1945, 1947, 1948, and 1949. Transitioned into coaching, leading teams in various leagues. After retiring from playing, continued to influence the game through a coaching career that helped develop future players and strategies.
Five-time Stanley Cup champion with Toronto Maple Leafs
Played as a goaltender from 1936 to 1952
Coached in various ice hockey leagues after retirement
Other People Born on May 15th
Scott Drinkwater
Rugby League Player for North Queensland Cowboys
Born
May 15th, 1997 28 years ago
Professional rugby league player, primarily played fullback and five-eighth positions. Made significant contributions to the North Queensland Cowboys since joining the team in 2018. Achieved great success, including participating in the National Rugby League finals and contributing to the team's overall performance. Gained recognition for versatility on the field and ability to execute plays under pressure. Continued to develop skills and leadership within the sport, showcasing determination and talent.
Continue ReadingCecilia Malmström
Swedish politician and trade commissioner
Born
May 15th, 1968 57 years ago
An academic and politician, served as the 15th European Commissioner for Trade from 2014 to 2019. Focused on modernizing trade agreements and promoting free trade policies. Played a significant role in negotiations for trade agreements with various countries and regions. Contributed to initiatives aimed at balancing trade and sustainability.
Continue ReadingAdam Moffat
Scottish footballer and midfielder
Born
May 15th, 1986 39 years ago
Played as a midfielder primarily in the Major League Soccer (MLS). Featured predominantly for the Houston Dynamo, contributing to the team's success during the late 2000s and early 2010s. Also had stints with clubs like Columbus Crew and Portland Timbers, showcasing skills in ball distribution and tactical awareness. Transitioned to various roles in coaching and development after retirement from playing.
Continue ReadingVasilis Kikilias
Greek basketball player and politician
Born
May 15th, 1974 51 years ago
A basketball player and politician from Greece. Played professional basketball for several teams, including Olympiacos BC and AEK Athens. Transitioned to a political career, serving in various capacities, including as Minister of Tourism in Greece. Pursued initiatives aimed at promoting tourism and enhancing the country's global image.
Continue ReadingPaul Samuelson
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 15th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 94 years old
An American economist and academic, contributed significantly to economic theory and analysis. Developed the neoclassical synthesis, integrating key ideas from various schools of economic thought. Authored the influential textbook "Economics," which became a standard in the field for decades. Awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1970 for his contributions to the development of modern economic theory.
Continue ReadingBirdy
English singer-songwriter with hit songs
Born
May 15th, 1996 29 years ago
Born in 1996, this artist gained recognition at a young age with the release of the debut single 'Skinny Love,' which showcased a powerful vocal delivery and emotive songwriting. Debut album, self-titled 'Birdy,' produced multiple chart-topping hits and established a significant following. Collaborations with various artists and contributions to film soundtracks further expanded the singer's reach. Hits include 'People Help the People' and 'Wings,' both receiving critical acclaim and commercial success.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 17th
Gord Downie
Canadian musician and lead singer of The Tragically Hip
Born
1964 61 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2017 8 years ago — 53 years old
A central figure in Canadian rock music, served as the lead singer and lyricist for The Tragically Hip from their formation in 1984 until the band's final tour in 2016. The band released numerous albums, achieving substantial commercial success and critical acclaim. Known for poetic lyrics and a charismatic stage presence, performed memorable songs such as 'Ahead by a Century' and 'Bobcaygeon.' Downie also embarked on a solo career, releasing several albums and engaging in various artistic projects, including poetry and activism, particularly concerning Indigenous rights in Canada before passing away in 2017.
Continue ReadingMitzi Gaynor
Actress and dancer from 'South Pacific'
Born
September 4th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2024 1 years ago — 93 years old
An American actress, singer, and dancer, gained prominence during the 1950s and 1960s. Starred in the Broadway musical 'South Pacific' and the film adaptation of the same name in 1958. Appeared in several other musicals including 'Anything Goes' and 'There’s No Business Like Show Business'. Hosted numerous television specials and earned acclaim for live performances. Received a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of contributions to the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingElijah Cummings
American politician and civil rights advocate
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2019 6 years ago — 68 years old
Served as a U.S. Congressman representing Maryland's 7th congressional district from 1996 until death in 2019. Played a significant role in numerous civil rights initiatives and government oversight efforts. Chaired the House Oversight and Reform Committee, focusing on accountability and transparency in government. Advocated for healthcare reform, voting rights, and social justice.
Continue ReadingTom Shaw
American bishop of Episcopal Church
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the bishop of the Episcopal Church and held significant leadership roles within the church's community. Worked on various initiatives related to social justice, education, and community service. Ordained in 1994, led the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts from 2004 until retirement. Focused on enhancing church outreach and fostering dialogue within the community. Involved in ecumenical and interfaith efforts to promote understanding and cooperation among different religious groups.
Continue ReadingLeo Nomellini
American football player and wrestler
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2000 25 years ago — 76 years old
Played professional American football as a defensive tackle for the San Francisco 49ers and also competed in professional wrestling. During a career that spanned two sports, achieved significant recognition in both. Played for the 49ers from 1949 to 1965, contributing to the team’s defense in various championships. Transitioned to wrestling, gaining popularity and establishing a successful career in the ring. Inducted into multiple halls of fame for achievements in both football and wrestling.
Continue ReadingAndrew Schally
Endocrinologist and Nobel Laureate
Born
November 30th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2024 1 years ago — 97 years old
An endocrinologist contributed significantly to the understanding of hormonal regulation and neuroendocrinology. Conducted research identifying various releasing hormones, providing insights into their roles in the endocrine system. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1977 for discoveries related to the hypothalamus. Emphasized the importance of peptides in the control of hormone secretion. His work laid foundational principles for further research in endocrinology and therapeutic applications.
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