What Happened This Year 1987

People Who Died in 1987

Vijay Merchant

Indian cricketer and Test captain
Born
October 12th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 76 years old

Played as an opening batsman for India in Test cricket from 1933 to 1955. Captained the Indian team and made significant contributions with the bat. Achieved a highest score of 243 in a Test match against New Zealand. Played a crucial role in establishing India as a competitive force in international cricket during the early years of the sport in the country.

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Donn F. Eisele

Astronaut and pilot on Apollo 7 mission
Born
June 23rd, 1930 96 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1930, a colonel in the United States Air Force, held a significant role as a test pilot before becoming an astronaut. Flew on the Apollo 7 mission in 1968, the first crewed flight of the Apollo program, which successfully tested the command and service modules. After an extensive career in aeronautics and space, retired from NASA and served in various engineering and management roles in the aerospace industry.

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Patrick Troughton

Actor famous for role in Doctor Who
Born
March 25th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 67 years old

An English actor, recognized for a significant portrayal in science fiction television. Gained prominence as the second incarnation of the Doctor in the long-running BBC series Doctor Who from 1966 to 1969. His performance contributed to the show's legacy and established a fondly remembered character in the series. Troughton also appeared in a variety of stage productions and television dramas throughout his career, showcasing versatility in acting. Additionally, he participated in several classic films, including The Brothers Karamazov and The Omen.

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Bola Sete

Brazilian guitarist and composer
Born
July 16th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 64 years old

Acclaimed Brazilian guitarist and composer emerged as a significant figure in bossa nova, blending elements of samba and jazz. Established a successful career in the United States after moving there in the late 1950s. Contributed to the popularization of bossa nova in America through collaborations and performances with various renowned musicians. Left a lasting legacy through recordings that showcased the unique sound of Brazilian music and influenced generations of guitarists.

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Vincent Ellis McKelvey

Geologist and author of geological studies
Born
April 6th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 71 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of geology through extensive research and numerous publications. Focused on the geology of the western United States and the San Andreas fault. Authored influential works that addressed geological hazards and their implications for urban planning and environmental concerns. Served as a prominent figure in geological associations and contributed to educational efforts in earth sciences.

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James Coco

American actor with Broadway acclaim
Born
March 21st, 1930 96 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 57 years old

Active in film, television, and theater, this actor gained recognition for roles in several productions. Achieved success on Broadway, receiving a Tony Award for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical for the 1970 production of "The Royal Family". Appeared in popular television series such as "The Love Boat" and "Blossom". In film, featured in "Only When I Laugh" and "Fatso", showcasing a range of comedic and dramatic talents.

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Randall Garrett

American author and poet
Born
December 16th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent American author and poet, contributions included science fiction and fantasy literature. Wrote extensively under his own name and the pseudonym DD Harriman. Significant works include the novel 'Lord Darcy' and various short stories emphasizing a blend of logic and magic. Garnered recognition in the 1960s and 70s within the genre, creating a unique world that combined detective fiction elements with fantastical themes.

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Joan Greenwood

English actress in film and theater
Born
March 4th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent English actress renowned for her work in film and theater. Active during the mid-20th century, she achieved acclaim for performances in productions such as 'The Ladykillers' and 'Kind Hearts and Coronets'. Her distinctive voice and commanding presence made her a sought-after talent in the industry. Additionally, she had a successful career in radio and television, showcasing her versatility across different mediums.

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Warne Marsh

American saxophonist and jazz musician
Born
October 26th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent figure in the jazz scene, contributed significantly to the development of the cool jazz style. In the late 1940s, collaborated with other notable musicians, including Lennie Tristano and Lee Konitz. Recorded several albums, showcasing improvisational skills and innovative saxophone techniques. Played a key role in the 1950s jazz movement and continued to perform and teach throughout the latter part of the 20th century.

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