What Happened This Year 1985

People Who Died in 1985

Bob Scheffing

Baseball player and manager
Born
August 11th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 72 years old

Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball primarily for the Detroit Tigers and Chicago Cubs. Managed the Chicago Cubs and Detroit Tigers later in his career. In 1950, managed the Tigers to a third-place finish in the American League. Participated in two All-Star Games during playing career. Contributed to the baseball community after retirement through coaching and managing.

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Edna Meade Colson

Educator and activist for civil rights
Born
October 7th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 97 years old

An educator and activist contributed to civil rights and education reform in the early to mid-20th century. Played a integral role in advocating for the inclusion of African American history in education. Worked alongside various organizations to improve educational opportunities for African Americans and promote racial equality. Founded and led initiatives targeting community engagement and social improvement. Engaged in a variety of public speaking events to raise awareness about civil rights issues.

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Helen MacInnes

Author of espionage novels
Born
October 7th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Scotland, an author gained recognition for writing espionage novels that explored themes of intrigue and international politics. After moving to the United States, contributed significantly to the genre with a unique perspective shaped by personal experiences. Works include 'Above Suspicion' and 'The Salzburg Connection', both of which reflect detailed knowledge of the intricacies of espionage. These novels often drew on her own background and experiences, bringing authenticity to her storytelling.

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C. Buddingh'

Dutch poet and translator
Born
August 7th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 67 years old

Born in the Netherlands, Buddingh' was a prolific poet and translator. His literary works spanned several collections, where he expressed themes of everyday life and the intricacies of human experiences. As a translator, he contributed significantly to the introduction of international poetry to Dutch audiences. Buddingh' received various awards for his poetry, establishing a prominent place in the Dutch literary scene.

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Clarence Nash

Voice actor, Donald Duck voice
Born
December 7th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1904, a voice actor and singer provided the distinctive voice for the character Donald Duck, a role started in 1934. The voice became a signature element of the character in various animated films and television shows, contributing to the character's popularity and legacy in Disney history. Over several decades, contributions extended to voice work in over 100 animated productions, showcasing a unique vocal style that influenced animation. Nash's work in voice acting influenced the industry and established a template for character voices in animation.

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Max Zaslofsky

Basketball player and coach
Born
December 7th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 60 years old

Played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1946 to 1955, representing teams such as the New York Knicks and Chicago Stags. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, including a tenure with the Chicago Zephyrs. Contributed to the development of basketball during the early years of the league and was recognized for exceptional shooting ability.

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Cooney Weiland

Ice hockey player and coach, NHL
Born
November 5th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1904, a Canadian ice hockey player and coach. Competed in the NHL during the 1920s and 1930s. Played primarily as a left winger. Represented the New York Rangers, Detroit Red Wings, and the Chicago Black Hawks during his playing career. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, contributing to the development of future players.

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David Purley

Race car driver, known for bravery
Born
January 26th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 40 years old

A race car driver, primarily competed in Formula One during the early 1970s. Gained attention for an impressive and brave rescue of another driver following a crash at the 1973 Dutch Grand Prix. Also participated in various endurance races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Despite not achieving significant championship standings, demonstrated remarkable skill and determination on the track.

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Georgia Hale

Silent film actress and investor
Born
June 25th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 85 years old

Started a career in film during the silent era, appearing in several notable projects. Gained recognition for the role in the 1927 film 'The Jazz Singer', which was pivotal in the transition to sound in cinema. Transitioned to a successful career in real estate investment after her film career waned, displaying a keen business acumen.

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