What Happened This Year 1997

People Who Died in 1997

Brian Glover

English wrestler and actor in 'Kes'
Born
April 2nd, 1934 90 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 63 years old

Originated as a professional wrestler, gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s. Transitioned to acting, achieving recognition for performances in film and television. Featured in the film 'Kes' which gained critical acclaim. Appeared in British television series such as 'The Sweeney' and 'The Professionals'. Inspired many through his work in both wrestling and acting, leaving a lasting legacy in both fields.

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Frank Robert Miller

Canadian Air Marshal and politician
Born
April 30th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1908, served as a Canadian Air Force officer and later became a prominent political figure. Played a key role during his tenure in the military, contributing to national defense strategies. Transitioned into politics, serving as a member of the House of Commons. Engaged in various initiatives to promote the interests of the Canadian military and defense policies.

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Shoichi Yokoi

Japanese World War II soldier
Born
March 31st, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 82 years old

A sergeant in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II, served in the Battle of Guam. Following the end of the war, remained hidden in the jungles of Guam for 28 years, unaware of Japan's surrender. Discovered by locals in 1972, returned to Japan, where his story garnered significant media attention.

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Anton LaVey

Occultist, founder of the Church of Satan
Born
April 11th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 67 years old

An American occultist established the Church of Satan in 1966, which became the leading organization representing Satanism. The church promoted a distinct form of atheistic belief system and ritual practices. Published 'The Satanic Bible' in 1969, which outlined the doctrines of LaVeyan Satanism and gained significant attention and influence. Authored other works including 'The Satanic Rituals' and 'The Devil's Notebook.'

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Bohumil Hrabal

Czech author of 'Too Loud a Solitude'
Born
March 28th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 83 years old

A notable Czech writer, contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. Works often experienced a blend of surrealism and existentialism. Gained prominence through novels, short stories, and essays that explore the human condition amid oppressive political climates. 'Too Loud a Solitude' and 'I Served the King of England' are among the celebrated works. His writing reflects a distinctive style that combines humor and melancholy, frequently drawing from personal experiences and historical context.

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Fritz Von Erich

Wrestler and trainer of Von Erich Family
Born
August 16th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 68 years old

An American professional wrestler and trainer, one of the foremost figures in the sport during the 1970s and 1980s. Achieved fame as both a wrestler and promoter, establishing the Von Erich wrestling dynasty. Held multiple championships in various promotions, notably the World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW). Played a significant role in popularizing wrestling in Texas. Transitioned into a training role and influenced the careers of several wrestlers in the industry.

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Matt Christopher

Children's author, sports-themed novels
Born
August 16th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 80 years old

An American author primarily wrote children's books focusing on sports themes. Gained recognition for contributions to young adult literature through engaging narratives involving various sports. Wrote over 100 books that have entertained and inspired young readers, providing them with relatable characters and experiences. Focused on promoting sportsmanship and teamwork throughout the stories. Authored popular titles such as 'The Kid Who Only Hit Homers' and 'Soccer on Sunday', which addressed the challenges and triumphs faced by young athletes.

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Kunihiko Kodaira

Mathematician, Fields Medal recipient
Born
March 16th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent mathematician, contributions focused on complex analysis and algebraic geometry. Developed new methods in the theory of functions, which impacted the area of several complex variables. Awarded the Fields Medal in 1954 for significant advancements in mathematics. Worked at various prestigious institutions, including Princeton University and the University of Tokyo, influencing mathematical research and education.

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Chico Science

Brazilian singer-songwriter and musician
Born
March 13th, 1966 59 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 31 years old

A prominent figure in Brazilian music, contributed significantly to the manguebeat movement, a fusion of traditional Brazilian music with rock and hip-hop elements. Initiated a powerful cultural revival in the Recife region during the 1990s. Released acclaimed albums such as 'Da Lama ao Caos' which received recognition for innovative sound and socially conscious lyrics. Engaged in collaborations with other artists that expanded the reach of manguebeat both nationally and internationally.

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