What Happened This Year 1998

People Who Died in 1998

Justin Fashanu

Footballer and first openly gay player
Born
February 19th, 1961 64 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1998 26 years ago — 37 years old

Played professional football primarily as a forward. Fashanu began his career at Norwich City, earning a reputation for his skill and agility on the pitch. He transferred to Nottingham Forest where he played under legendary manager Brian Clough. In the early 1990s, he became the first professional footballer in the UK to come out as gay, a notable milestone in sports history. His career included playing for various clubs across England and brief stints in the United States. Fashanu also represented the England U-21 team, gaining recognition for his talent at a young age.

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Gene Raymond

American actor and pilot in films
Born
August 13th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1998 26 years ago — 89 years old

Active in the film industry from the 1930s to the 1960s, Gene Raymond appeared in significant roles in movies such as 'The Wedding Night' and 'Murder in the Blue Room'. In addition to acting, he served as a pilot during World War II, contributing to the war effort. After the war, he continued to perform in various productions, including television series. His career spanned several decades, showcasing his talents in both film and theater.

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Eddie Rabbitt

Singer-songwriter with 'I Love a Rainy Night'
Born
November 27th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1998 26 years ago — 56 years old

An American singer-songwriter and guitarist, achieved success in country music during the late 1970s and 1980s. Gained popularity for blending country and pop sounds, creating a distinctive style. Released numerous hit songs, with several reaching the top of country charts. Career highlights include writing and performing hit singles that sold millions of copies. Also contributed to the music of others, collaborating with various artists.

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Allan McLeod Cormack

Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physiology
Born
February 23rd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1998 26 years ago — 74 years old

Contributed to the development of computed tomography, a pivotal technique in medical imaging that allows for cross-sectional imaging of the body. Worked at Tufts University where significant research and advancements in x-ray technology were made. Collaborated with others to further improve imaging resolutions and techniques.

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Charles Rebozo

American banker and businessman
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1998 26 years ago — 86 years old

A banker and businessman established notable connections in Miami. Developed a significant banking career and engaged with prominent political figures. Had close ties with high-profile individuals, including presidents. Played a role in the growth of Miami's economy in the 20th century.

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Johannes Kotkas

Estonian wrestler and hammer thrower
Born
February 3rd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1998 26 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1915, a prominent Estonian athlete excelled in both wrestling and hammer throw. Competed in the 1936 Summer Olympics representing Estonia in wrestling. Achieved significant recognition in the hammer throw, ranking among the top competitors in the sport during the 1930s. Represented Estonia in multiple national competitions and contributed to the development of athletics in the country through performance and coaching.

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Alice Faye

American actress and singer, starred in musicals
Born
May 5th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1998 26 years ago — 83 years old

Actress and singer gained prominence in the 1930s and 1940s, noted for work in Hollywood musicals. Achieved success with films such as "Tin Pan Alley" and "Hello, Frisco, Hello." Faye's performances were characterized by her distinctive voice and charm, contributing to the popularity of the musical genre during that era. Transitioned into radio and continued to contribute to entertainment, showcasing versatility beyond the silver screen. Eventually retired from film but remained influential as a singer.

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Talat Mahmood

Indian playback singer and actor
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1998 26 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent playback singer and actor, remembered for contributions to Indian cinema and music. Gained popularity in the 1940s and 1950s. Sang in multiple languages including Hindi and Bengali. Involved in both acting and singing during a significant period of the Hindi film industry.

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Marjory Stoneman Douglas

Journalist and environmental activist
Born
April 7th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1998 26 years ago — 108 years old

Born in 1890, an American journalist and activist dedicated significant efforts to the conservation of the Everglades. Authored 'The Everglades: River of Grass' in 1947, which transformed perceptions of the region, advocating for ecological protection. Played a crucial role in the establishment of Everglades National Park in 1947, emphasizing the importance of the ecosystem. Engaged in numerous environmental organizations, influencing policy and public awareness regarding conservation. Continued to champion environmental causes into advanced age, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of environmental activism.

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