What Happened This Year 1997

People Who Died in 1997

Roy Lichtenstein

Pop Artist and Leading Figure of Art
Born
October 27th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1997 27 years ago — 73 years old

An American painter and sculptor, active from the early 1960s until his death in 1997, utilized a style derived from comic strips and advertising images. Major contributions include the development of the pop art movement, characterized by bold colors and Ben-Day dots. Achieved recognition through distinct works that integrate commercial techniques into fine art, transforming perceptions of both genres.

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Edith Ballinger Price

Writer and illustrator of children's books
Born
1897 128 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1997 27 years ago — 100 years old

A writer and illustrator specialized in children's literature. Created a series of beloved children's books, combining engaging stories with unique illustrations. Worked as an art teacher during the earlier part of her career, fostering creativity in students. Served as an illustrator for magazines, enhancing publications through artistic contributions. Later, established a reputation for combining art and storytelling, which resonated with young audiences.

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Michael Adekunle Ajasin

Nigerian politician, former governor
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1997 27 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the third Governor of Ondo State from 1979 to 1983. His tenure was marked by various initiatives aimed at improving education and infrastructure in the region. Following the military coup in 1983, governance was interrupted, and Adekunle Ajasin was subsequently placed under house arrest. After his release, he returned to politics and founded a political party, contributing to the democratic process in Nigeria. Later, he held leadership roles in several organizations before his death in 1997.

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Otto Ernst Remer

German general during World War II
Born
August 18th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1997 27 years ago — 85 years old

Served as a general in the German army during World War II. Became widely recognized for his role in quelling the July 20, 1944, assassination attempt against Adolf Hitler. Commanded the 56th Panzer Corps and participated in various military campaigns on the Eastern Front. After the war, engaged in far-right political activities and founded the National Democratic Party of Germany in the 1960s.

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Brian Pillman

Professional wrestler and football player
Born
May 22nd, 1962 62 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1997 27 years ago — 35 years old

Played college football at the University of Miami and went on to play professionally in the Canadian Football League. Transitioned to professional wrestling, where gained prominence in World Wrestling Federation (now WWE) and World Championship Wrestling (WCW). Became recognized for innovative wrestling style and intense persona, contributing to the rise of the attitude era in wrestling. His career was marked by notable rivalries and storylines, which left a lasting legacy in the wrestling community.

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Johnny Vander Meer

Baseball player, two-time All-Star
Born
November 2nd, 1914 110 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1997 27 years ago — 82 years old

A professional baseball player and manager, Vander Meer played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. His career is notable for achieving consecutive no-hitters while playing for the Cincinnati Reds in 1938. Vander Meer's remarkable feat established him as a prominent figure in baseball history. After his playing career, he transitioned into coaching and managing within the sport, contributing to various teams in the minor leagues. Vander Meer's influence remained significant in the baseball community.

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John Denver

Singer-songwriter and actor, 'Take Me Home, Country Roads'
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1997 27 years ago — 54 years old

Active in music from the 1960s, contributed significantly to the folk and country genres. Gained widespread popularity through hit songs that resonated with themes of nature and love. Achieved commercial success with albums like 'Greatest Hits' and 'Rocky Mountain Holiday'. Also pursued acting, with a notable role in the television special 'John Denver and The Muppets: A Christmas Together'. Advocated for environmental causes and humanitarian efforts throughout career, participating in various charitable activities.

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Harold Robbins

Author of 'The Carpetbaggers'
Born
May 21st, 1916 108 years ago
Died
October 14th, 1997 27 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1916, an American author and screenwriter became a prominent figure in the literary world, best known for writing provocative novels that often explored themes of sex, power, and greed. 'The Carpetbaggers', released in 1961, achieved commercial success and was later adapted into a film. Other notable works include 'A Stone for Danny Fisher' and 'The Betsy'. Robbins wrote numerous bestsellers, solidifying a reputation as a master of popular fiction. He also contributed to the screenplay of various films, showcasing versatility beyond his novels. His work garnered a worldwide readership, and he remained an influential figure in American literature throughout his life.

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Audra Lindley

American actress and television star
Born
September 24th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1997 27 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1918, an American actress gained prominence through her performances on stage and screen. Made significant contributions to television during the 1970s. Best recognized for portraying Helen Roper on the sitcom 'Three's Company'. Also had notable roles in the TV series 'The Ropers' and 'The Brady Bunch'.

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