Vicky Sunohara
Ice hockey player and Olympic gold medalist
This athlete played for the Canadian women's national ice hockey team and was a key player during her career. Competed in multiple World Championships and represented Canada in the Winter Olympics. Achieved significant success on the international stage, contributing to the team's victories and performance in crucial tournaments.
Won a gold medal at the 2002 Winter Olympics
Competed in seven IIHF Women's World Championships
Served as captain of the national team
Other People Born on May 18th
Fred Saberhagen
American author of science fiction novels
Born
May 18th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
June 29th, 2007 18 years ago — 77 years old
A soldier and author, contributed significantly to the science fiction genre through imaginative narratives and creative world-building. Gained prominence with the 'Berserker' series, which explored themes of artificial intelligence and conflict across galaxies. Other notable works include 'The Lost Swords' series and collaborations with fellow authors on anthologies and novels. His stories often featured intricate plots and philosophical dilemmas, appealing to a wide audience of science fiction enthusiasts.
Continue ReadingDon Martin
Cartoonist of MAD magazine fame
Born
May 18th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 69 years old
Raised in New Jersey, a prominent cartoonist created a unique style characterized by exaggerated characters and humorous situations. Contributed to MAD magazine for over four decades, becoming a vital part of its identity. Developed a signature brand of slapstick humor and absurdity evident in recurring gags and inventive illustrations. Also produced his own series in comic format, further showcasing his distinctive artistic approach and storytelling. Influenced a generation of cartoonists and left a lasting mark on the genre of humor comics.
Continue ReadingMeredith Willson
Playwright and composer of The Music Man
Born
May 18th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1984 41 years ago — 82 years old
A composer and playwright created the Broadway musical The Music Man, which premiered in 1957. The show followed a con man named Harold Hill who posed as a band leader in a small Iowa town. Willson also wrote the successful musical-notes for several other works, including The Unsinkable Molly Brown. His background in music, as a conductor and musician, greatly influenced his creative output and compositional style. Willson's contributions to the arts have been recognized through numerous awards including Tony Awards for his work. His legacy continues through the enduring popularity of The Music Man, which remains a staple in theater productions worldwide.
Continue ReadingDon Whillans
Rock climber and mountaineer
Born
May 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1985 40 years ago — 52 years old
An English rock climber and mountaineer, gained recognition for significant ascents in the 1950s and 1960s. Participated in notable climbs in the Himalayas, including an attempt on Kangchenjunga in 1976. Contributed to the development of climbing techniques and equipment during a transformative period in the sport. Often associated with the spirit of adventure and pioneering climbing routes in the UK and abroad.
Continue ReadingWalter Gropius
Architect, designed John F. Kennedy Building
Born
May 18th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1969 56 years ago — 86 years old
A leading architect of the 20th century, contributed significantly to modern architecture as the founder of the Bauhaus school in Germany. Emphasized functional design and the integration of art with technology. Designed multiple iconic buildings including the John F. Kennedy Federal Building in Boston and the Werkbund Exhibition in 1914. Advocated for the unity of art and industrial design, influencing generations of architects and designers.
Continue ReadingPope John Paul II
Religious leader and author of encyclicals
Born
May 18th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2005 20 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church from 1978 until 2005. Played a key role in the fall of communism in Eastern Europe, notably influencing events in Poland. Advocated for human rights and interfaith dialogue, making significant contributions to the Church's teachings through numerous encyclicals. Undertook extensive travels, visiting 129 countries during papacy and meeting with leaders from various faiths. His efforts included promoting peace and addressing issues such as poverty and social injustice.
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