What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

Bernice Rubens

Welsh author and Booker Prize winner
Born
July 26th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2004 20 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1923 in Cardiff, this author gained prominence in the literary world with a distinctive narrative style. The first woman to win the Booker Prize, the work garnered critical acclaim and elevated the author's status in modern literature. A notable theme in the works involved the exploration of human relationships, often highlighting the complexities of life and the darker aspects of society. Contributions to literature thrived throughout several decades, with multiple novels published, showcasing a keen ability to weave intricate plots and profound observations.

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Enrique Fernando

Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
Born
July 24th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2004 20 years ago — 89 years old

A Filipino lawyer and jurist served as the 13th Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines from 1973 to 1986. Played a significant role in pivotal legal reforms during his tenure. Contributed to the judiciary's independence in a period marked by political challenges and upheaval. Oversaw several key cases that shaped Philippine law and governance.

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Pierre Salinger

American journalist, 11th Press Secretary
Born
June 14th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2004 20 years ago — 79 years old

Served as the 11th White House Press Secretary under President John F. Kennedy from 1961 to 1963. Worked as a journalist for various news organizations, including ABC News and the San Francisco Chronicle. Later served in the U.S. Senate as a Democratic member. Engaged in media commentary regarding political affairs throughout his career.

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Uzi Hitman

Israeli singer-songwriter and composer
Born
June 9th, 1952 72 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2004 20 years ago — 52 years old

A prominent Israeli singer-songwriter and composer contributed to the Israeli music scene from the 1970s until his death in 2004. Hitman gained recognition for blending contemporary music with traditional Israeli sounds. He wrote and composed numerous hit songs, many of which became staples in Israeli pop culture. In addition to his success as a performer, he worked extensively as a songwriter for other artists, further enriching the musical landscape of Israel. His notable contributions to children's music earned him acclaim and even a national award for excellence in music. He passed away in 2004, leaving behind a legacy of music that continues to resonate within the Israeli community.

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Anthony Hecht

American poet and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
January 16th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2004 20 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1923, the poet gained recognition for intricate and lyrical poetry that often explored themes of beauty, history, and loss. Education included studying at Bard College and Columbia University. After serving in the U.S. Army during World War II, a literary career emerged, characterized by a distinctive style that combines classical elements with modern sensibilities. Notable works include collections such as 'A Summoning of Everyman' and 'The Hard Hours', both receiving critical acclaim and widely studied in contemporary poetry courses. In 1968, awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry for 'The Hard Hours'.

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Chuck Hiller

Baseball player and manager with Giants
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2004 20 years ago — 70 years old

A baseball player played primarily as a second baseman in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 1955 with the New York Giants and later played for the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Mets. Made history as the first player to hit a home run in a World Series game for the Mets in 1969. Transitioned to a coaching and managerial role after retirement, contributing to various teams' development, including the San Francisco Giants and the Baltimore Orioles.

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Bill Nicholson

Football manager and player with Tottenham
Born
January 26th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2004 20 years ago — 85 years old

Started a career as a football player, distinguishing as a right winger at the club Tottenham Hotspur, where he served from 1936 to 1942. Transitioned to management in 1958, leading Tottenham to significant victories, including their first FA Cup trophy in 1961 and the UEFA Cup in 1972. His tenure contributed to the establishment of Tottenham as a formidable force in English football.

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Robert Merrill

American opera singer and actor
Born
June 4th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2004 20 years ago — 87 years old

A significant figure in American opera and popular music, an acclaimed baritone performed in leading roles at the Metropolitan Opera for over two decades. Achieved fame through operatic performances and concert appearances, captivating audiences with a powerful voice. Also contributed to television and recordings, featuring in classic shows and popular music segments. His contributions to the arts extended beyond performances, participating in various charitable events.

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James Aloysius Hickey

American cardinal of the Catholic Church
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
October 24th, 2004 20 years ago — 84 years old

Ordained as a priest in 1950, served in various capacities within the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C. Elected as the fourth Archbishop of Washington in 1974, held this position until retirement in 2000. Elevated to the rank of cardinal in 1983. Advocated for social justice and the dignity of human life throughout pastoral ministry.

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