What Happened This Year 1986

People Who Died in 1986

Prince Georg of Denmark

Danish royal, military officer
Born
April 16th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 66 years old

Born into Danish royalty, served in the military, attained the rank of Major General. Played significant roles in military operations during World War II. Engaged in various ceremonial duties and represented the Danish royal family at numerous events. Notable for contributions to the Danish armed forces and the monarchy. Was a skilled equestrian and participated in several equestrian events.

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Daniel Balavoine

French singer-songwriter and producer
Born
February 5th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 34 years old

Beginning a musical career in the 1970s, this artist gained significant recognition in the French music scene. His talent was showcased through a combination of poignant lyrics and powerful vocals. Major hits included 'L'Aziza' and 'Le Chanteur', which addressed social issues and personal struggles. The artist also collaborated with prominent figures in French music, such as Michel Berger, and contributed to musical theater, most notably in the rock opera 'Starmania'. Tragically, a fatal accident occurred in 1997 while on a humanitarian mission in Africa.

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King Clancy

Ice hockey player and referee, Stanley Cup
Born
February 25th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 83 years old

This individual achieved prominence as a professional ice hockey player, referee, and coach. Playing primarily as a defenseman, contributions to the Ottawa Senators during the 1920s and 1930s resulted in winning the Stanley Cup in 1927. Transitioning from player to referee, officiated multiple games in the National Hockey League, showcasing a commitment to the sport in various capacities. Later served as a coach, influencing many players and teams in the league.

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Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis

American saxophonist and jazz musician
Born
March 2nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 64 years old

An influential tenor saxophonist, recognized for contributions to jazz music. Collaborated with notable artists such as Count Basie and the Heath Brothers. Recorded both as a leader and as a sideman, contributing to the development of hard bop. Worked extensively in clubs and festivals throughout the United States, showcasing virtuosity and distinct tone. Participated in various recordings that helped shape modern jazz.

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Georges Dumézil

French philologist and academic
Born
March 4th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 88 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of philology and comparative mythology. Developed the theory of the tripartition of societies, which influenced the study of Indo-European cultures. Served as a professor at the Collège de France and published extensively on ancient texts and mythologies. His analysis of the social structures of ancient peoples shaped the understanding of their cultures and religious practices.

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Howard Greenfield

American songwriter with hit songs
Born
March 15th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 50 years old

A notable songwriter, contributed to the music industry primarily during the 1960s. Collaborated with composers to produce a range of popular songs. Worked extensively with several prominent artists, creating timeless tunes that have been covered by various musicians. Also wrote lyrics for songs in films and television, further expanding the reach of work. Contributed to the development of the pop music genre during a transformative era.

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László Lékai

Archbishop of Esztergom and Cardinal
Born
March 12th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 76 years old

Served as the Archbishop of Esztergom and held the title of Cardinal within the Roman Catholic Church. Contributed to church leadership during a time of significant social change in Hungary. Worked towards the restoration of church properties and the re-establishment of religious institutions in post-World War II Hungary. Participated in various church councils and contributed to ecclesiastical discussions on pressing issues of the time.

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Bill Edrich

English cricketer and footballer
Born
March 26th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 70 years old

An English cricketer and footballer played for Middlesex and represented England in cricket from 1946 to 1956. In cricket, achieved notable success as a batsman, accruing over 5,000 runs, including several centuries. Also contributed to the game as a wicketkeeper. In football, played for the team Fulham, showcasing talents on the pitch during the late 1930s.

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Sammy Drechsel

German comedian and journalist
Born
April 25th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 61 years old

Born in Germany on April 25, 1925, a prominent figure in the realm of comedy and journalism emerged. Through a unique blend of humor and insightful commentary, this individual contributed significantly to the cultural landscape. A career marked by various performances and publications, with a focus on engaging with contemporary social issues, marked their legacy. Their work often challenged norms and entertained audiences across different platforms, solidifying a place in both the comedic and journalistic fields.

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