What Happened This Year 1986

People Who Died in 1986

Wilbur R. Franks

Canadian inventor of the g-suit
Born
March 4th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 85 years old

A Canadian scientist developed the g-suit, which is designed to counteract the effects of gravitational forces on pilots and astronauts. This innovative suit became essential for high-speed flight and space travel. Research and experimentation led to the prototype, which gained recognition during World War II. The contribution significantly improved pilot safety and performance in extreme conditions.

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Lyudmila Pakhomova

Russian ice dancer and Olympian
Born
December 31st, 1946 78 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 40 years old

An accomplished ice dancer, this athlete excelled in competitive figure skating in the 1970s and 1980s. Pakhomova partnered with Alexander Gorshkov to achieve significant success in the sport, capturing several titles. The duo secured gold at the 1970 World Championships, earned Olympic gold in 1976, and won multiple European Championships. The innovative style and technical precision displayed in performances set a standard in ice dance. This dancer's contribution to the sport remains influential, as the techniques and artistry developed are still referenced in ice dance today.

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Lena Frances Edwards

Physician and Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient
Born
September 17th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 86 years old

A pioneering physician, contributed significantly to the field of medicine. Advocated for health care access and public health improvement within the African American community. Received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for outstanding service in improving the health of underserved populations. Focused on addressing health disparities and promoting preventive care. In addition to clinical work, engaged in teaching and mentoring medical professionals to enhance health care delivery.

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Malcolm Nokes

English hammer and discus thrower
Born
May 20th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 89 years old

Competed in athletics, specializing in hammer and discus throw. Participated in the 1920 Summer Olympics held in Antwerp, Belgium. Achieved notable national success in the 1920s, marking significant participation in British athletics events.

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Koos Rietkerk

Dutch lawyer and Minister of the Interior
Born
December 14th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 59 years old

A Dutch lawyer and politician served as Minister of the Interior from 1973 to 1977. Engaged in various political roles, contributions included overseeing important reforms in administrative laws and regional governance. Active in enhancing the relationship between the central government and local authorities, which shaped local governance policies during tenure. Competed in political debates and discussions across national platforms, lending expertise in guiding legislative matters for the country.

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Edgar Parin d'Aulaire

Author and illustrator of children's books
Born
September 30th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 88 years old

A German-American author and illustrator was renowned for creating children's books that blended educational content with engaging illustrations. Collaborated closely with his wife, publishing many works that became staples in children's literature. Focused on American history and mythology, producing titles that appealed to young readers. The most notable works include "The Book of Giants," "America, A Patriotic Primer," and the acclaimed biography of Benjamin Franklin.

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Ding Ling

Chinese author and educator
Born
October 12th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significantly to Chinese literature, particularly during the 20th century. Worked as an educator and was involved in cultural and political movements. Published influential works that reflected the social issues of the time. Involved with the leftist literary movement and later joined the Communist Party. Received recognition for writing that challenged traditional norms and addressed women's rights.

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Colin McCool

Australian cricketer and Test player
Born
December 9th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 70 years old

An accomplished cricketer, this individual played for Australia in the 1940s and 1950s. Primarily a leg spin bowler, featured in 24 Test matches and took 99 wickets. Established a reputation as a reliable player during the early years of post-war cricket. Also contributed to state-level cricket for New South Wales. Retired from international cricket after the 1955 Ashes series against England.

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Hubertus Strughold

Physiologist, space medicine pioneer
Born
June 15th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 88 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of space medicine, providing foundational research that supported human spaceflight. Worked with the U.S. Air Force and later at NASA, focusing on the physiological effects of space travel. Developed techniques for monitoring and responding to the health needs of astronauts during missions. Authored numerous scientific publications on the impact of high-altitude flying and lack of gravity on the human body, shaping protocols for future astronauts.

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