What Happened This Year 1985

People Who Died in 1985

J. Pat O'Malley

Actor and singer in animated films
Born
March 15th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1985 40 years ago — 80 years old

An English-American actor and singer, contributed significantly to animation and film during the mid-20th century. Provided voices for various characters in classic Disney animated films. Worked extensively in television and film, becoming a recognizable voice in the industry.

Continue Reading

Ray Ellington

English singer and drummer
Born
March 17th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1985 40 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent figure in English music, contributed as a singer and drummer. Gained recognition during the 1950s and 1960s, collaborating with notable artists and performers. Rose to fame as a featured performer on 'The Goon Show', a legendary British radio program known for its absurd humor. Also worked extensively in television and contributed to various musical acts, enhancing the entertainment scene during that era.

Continue Reading

Konstantin Chernenko

Soviet politician, General Secretary
Born
September 24th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1985 40 years ago — 73 years old

Served as General Secretary of the Communist Party and de facto leader of the Soviet Union from 1984 until death in 1985. Took office following the brief tenure of Yuri Andropov. During leadership, focused on continuing policies of his predecessors, including military buildup and a cautious approach to political reform. His term was marked by declining health and significant political challenges, including economic stagnation. Chernenko's leadership style was characterized by conservatism and allegiance to traditional Soviet policies.

Continue Reading

Bob Nieman

Baseball player and scout
Born
January 26th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1985 40 years ago — 58 years old

Played Major League Baseball primarily for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Cubs. Debuted in 1949 and had a successful career with a strong batting average, earning a reputation as a skilled hitter. After retiring from playing, served as a scout for several teams, sharing expertise and knowledge with upcoming players. Contributed to the development of young talent in the sport.

Continue Reading

Eugene Ormandy

Conductor of the Philadelphia Orchestra
Born
November 18th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1985 40 years ago — 85 years old

Born in Hungary, a prominent conductor active during the 20th century. Served as the music director of the Philadelphia Orchestra for four decades, significantly shaping its sound and programming. Conducted numerous orchestral recordings, many of which were award-winning. His interpretations of classical repertoire were highly regarded, and he collaborated with notable soloists throughout his career. Contributed to the popularization of classical music through innovative performances and extensive touring.

Continue Reading

Eddie Shore

Ice hockey player; Hart Trophy winner
Born
November 25th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1985 39 years ago — 82 years old

A Canadian-American ice hockey player, played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League. Shore spent the majority of his career with the Boston Bruins. His aggressive playing style and skill contributed to his team's success throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Recognized for exceptional performance, he won the Hart Trophy as the league's most valuable player four times. Shore's contributions to the Bruins included leading the team to two Stanley Cup championships.

Continue Reading

Roger Sessions

Composer and educator with major works
Born
1896 129 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1985 39 years ago — 89 years old

An influential American composer and educator, this figure significantly contributed to 20th-century music. Sessions studied at Harvard University and later became a professor at various institutions, notably teaching at Princeton University. He composed numerous orchestral works, chamber music, and operas, showcasing a unique modernist style. His notable compositions include 'Shakespeare's Songs,' 'The New Music,' and the opera 'Monteverdi's Orfeo.' In addition to composition, he wrote extensively on music theory and criticism, advocating for the importance of contemporary works in the musical landscape. Sessions received various awards throughout his career, reflecting his contributions to the field and his influence on generations of musicians.

Continue Reading

Michael Redgrave

English actor and director in theater
Born
March 20th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1985 39 years ago — 77 years old

Played leading roles in theater and film from the 1930s to the 1970s. Directed several theatrical productions and made significant contributions to the British stage. In film, appeared in classics such as 'The Lady Vanishes' and 'The Browning Version'. Received critical acclaim for performances and directed the film 'The Seagull'.

Continue Reading

Raoul Ubac

Painter and sculptor of abstract works
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1985 39 years ago — 75 years old

Active in the 20th century, a French painter, sculptor, photographer, and engraver contributed to the abstract art movement. Educated in Paris, engaged with various art forms throughout a career that spanned several decades. Served as an associate of the CoBrA group, characterized by a focus on spontaneity and vibrant color. Worked in multiple mediums, exploring themes related to nature and abstraction. International exhibitions featured the artist's work, showcasing an evolution of style.

Continue Reading