What Happened This Year 1999

People Who Died in 1999

Doug Wickenheiser

Ice Hockey Player and first overall pick
Born
March 30th, 1961 63 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1999 26 years ago — 37 years old

Played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the St. Louis Blues, Montreal Canadiens, and New York Rangers. Wickenheiser was selected first overall in the 1980 NHL Entry Draft by the St. Louis Blues. His career included stints in various teams in the NHL as well as in minor leagues like the American Hockey League (AHL). After retirement, he contributed to the sport through coaching and player development. Wickenheiser faced health challenges later in life, including a battle with cancer, which led to his death in 1999.

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Betty Box

English film producer, produced films
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1999 26 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent English film producer played a significant role in the British film industry during the mid-20th century. Produced numerous well-regarded films, particularly within the comedy genre. Collaborated frequently with notable writers and directors to bring various successful projects to fruition. Contributed to the establishment of a distinctive style in British cinema through the production of films that combined wit and charm. Helped in the production of several films that became cultural touchstones in post-war Britain.

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Jim McClelland

Australian lawyer and Minister for Industry
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1999 26 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the 12th Minister for Industry and Science, contributing to policy development in Australia's industrial and scientific sectors. Worked as a prominent lawyer and jurist, influencing legal frameworks and industry regulation. Advocated for advancements in technology and research throughout tenure in government, with a focus on promoting Australian innovation.

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Susan Strasberg

American actress and film star
Born
May 22nd, 1938 86 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1999 26 years ago — 60 years old

Acclaimed American actress, gained prominence in the late 1950s and 1960s. Rose to fame with the lead role in the film adaptation of 'The Diary of Anne Frank.' Also starred in other significant works including 'The Country Girl' and 'The Manchurian Candidate.' Contributed to the acting community as an instructor at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute, bridging generational gaps in performance skills. Involved in various stage productions, including off-Broadway plays. Her career spanned several decades until her passing in 1999.

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Graham Staines

Missionary and translator in India
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1999 26 years ago — 58 years old

A missionary and translator focused on serving leprosy patients in India. Spent over three decades providing medical care and advocating for marginalized communities. Established a leprosy hospital and worked alongside local organizations to improve healthcare access. Contributed to translation work, helping to bridge communication gaps within underserved populations. His life and service ended tragically in 1999.

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Jay Pritzker

Businessman, co-founder of Hyatt
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1999 26 years ago — 77 years old

Co-founded the Hyatt Corporation, a global hospitality company, in 1957. Pritzker played a significant role in expanding the Hyatt brand from a single hotel to a large chain with locations around the world. Under his leadership, the company became recognized for its innovative approach to hospitality. In addition to his work with Hyatt, Pritzker was involved in various business ventures and investments across different sectors, contributing to his family's fortune. Pritzker also served on several boards and was engaged in philanthropic efforts.

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Joe D'Amato

Italian director and cinematographer
Born
December 15th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1999 26 years ago — 62 years old

A director and cinematographer focused on the genre of horror and adult films. Worked extensively in the Italian film industry, producing and directing a large body of work throughout the 1970s and 1980s. D'Amato gained notoriety for his unique style and often controversial subject matter. His films often included elements of eroticism and violent themes, contributing to the rise of the giallo film genre. Achieved a cult following for works that combined artful cinematography with provocative storytelling.

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Robert Shaw

Conductor of choral music and mentor
Born
August 9th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1999 26 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent conductor, specialized in choral music and deeply influenced the American choral landscape. Established the Robert Shaw Chorale, which gained acclaim for its recordings and performances. Served as music director at various institutions, including the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, and led celebrated performances of major choral works. In addition to conducting, engaged in promoting choral education and nurturing young talent.

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Sarah Louise Delany

Author and educator, 'Having Our Say'
Born
September 19th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1999 26 years ago — 109 years old

An author and educator, contributions included co-authoring the memoir 'Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years' with her sister, which detailed their experiences growing up in the segregated South. Delany served as a teacher and was dedicated to education throughout her career. The memoir became a bestseller and was adapted into a play, helping to bring attention to the lives of African American women in the 20th century.

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