What Happened This Year 1982

People Who Died in 1982

Ed Gein

Infamous murderer and body snatcher
Born
August 27th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1984 40 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1906, he gained infamy for committing a series of murders in the 1950s in Wisconsin. His activities included grave robbing, where he exhumed bodies from local cemeteries and fashioned household items from human remains. Arrested in 1957, the investigation revealed a disturbing collection of body parts and artifacts. His case influenced popular culture, inspiring several fictional characters, including Norman Bates in 'Psycho' and Leatherface in 'The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.' He was found guilty but deemed legally insane, resulting in his commitment to a psychiatric hospital until his death in 1984.

Continue Reading

John Gardner

American novelist and essayist
Born
July 21st, 1933 91 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2007 17 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1933, this novelist and essayist contributed significantly to American literature. Notable works include the novels 'Grendel' and 'The Sunlight Dialogues', which explore themes of identity and existence. In addition to fiction, this individual also wrote essays and literary criticism, influencing both readers and writers with a distinctive voice. Teaching roles at various institutions shaped future generations of writers. Engaged in the literary community, this figure also founded a notable writers' conference.

Continue Reading

Edward Rowe Snow

Historian and author of maritime history
Born
August 22nd, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1902, a historian and author focused on maritime history, particularly New England's coastal history. Snow wrote extensively about shipwrecks, lighthouses, and the development of maritime activities in the region. His writings helped to preserve the local maritime culture and its significance. Snow's contributions included a popular column in newspapers and several books that engaged a wide readership in maritime topics.

Continue Reading

Leroy Grumman

Aerospace engineer and businessman
Born
January 4th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 87 years old

Co-founded Grumman Aeronautical Engineering Co., which became a major player in manufacturing military aircraft during World War II. Played a significant role in the development of the F-14 Tomcat, the A-6 Intruder, and the Lunar Module used in the Apollo missions. The company was pivotal in advancing aerospace technology and provided support to the U.S. Navy and NASA. Grumman's leadership helped establish the company as a key figure in the American aviation industry throughout the mid-20th century.

Continue Reading

Robert Havemann

Chemist and academic with environmental focus
Born
March 11th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 72 years old

A chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, specifically in organic chemistry and environmental science. Participated in research that addressed issues related to pollution and waste management. Engaged in the investigation of chemical processes and their implications for environmental sustainability. Involved in academic circles, promoting scientific education and research throughout the career, particularly in the context of socialist East Germany.

Continue Reading

Lawrence Wackett

Australian commander and engineer
Born
January 2nd, 1896 129 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 86 years old

Served as an officer in the Royal Australian Air Force during World War II. Contributed to significant advancements in aviation technology. Played a key role in the development of the Australian Aircraft Company and led efforts to establish a national defense production capability. Participated in various engineering projects that enhanced military operations.

Continue Reading

Fred Williams

Australian painter of landscapes
Born
January 23rd, 1927 98 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 55 years old

An Australian painter specialized in landscape artworks, primarily recognized for his innovative techniques and bright color palette. Williams engaged deeply with the Australian landscape, reflecting the natural environment through a modernist lens. His career spanned several decades, during which he produced numerous significant works that contributed to the understanding of Australian identity in art. Williams held solo exhibitions across Australia and received multiple awards for his contributions to the arts, solidifying his legacy as a key figure in contemporary Australian painting.

Continue Reading

Lloyd Waner

Baseball player and World Series champion
Born
March 16th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 76 years old

Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1927 primarily as a center fielder. Played for the Pittsburgh Pirates for most of his career, contributing to their World Series championship in 1925. Recognized for exceptional hitting and fielding skills, achieved a lifetime batting average of .316 over 15 seasons. Concluded playing career with the New York Yankees and earned a place in the Pirates' Hall of Fame.

Continue Reading

Stanley Holloway

English actor and entertainer
Born
October 1st, 1890 134 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 92 years old

This individual enjoyed a successful career in entertainment, particularly noted for contributions to film, theater, and music. Born in 1890, career began in the early 20th century. Gained prominence with performances in musical theater and comedy. Most recognized for the iconic role of Alfred Doolittle in the original stage production of 'My Fair Lady' and the subsequent film adaptation. Additionally, became a celebrated entertainer through his unique storytelling and recitations.

Continue Reading