What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

Gennadi Strekalov

Russian engineer and astronaut
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2004 20 years ago — 64 years old

An engineer and astronaut participated in five space flights. Achievements include command of the Soyuz TM-16 mission, contributing to the Mir space station program, and performing multiple spacewalks. Strekalov spent a total of over 12 months in space throughout his career. His work focused on space station operations and advancing human exploration of space.

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Jonathan Drummond-Webb

Surgeon and academic in South Africa
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2004 20 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent surgeon and academic, contributions spanned various medical fields, emphasizing surgical techniques and education. Held positions at several esteemed institutions, significantly impacting medical training standards. Engaged in numerous surgical innovations and published a variety of academic papers. Actively involved in mentoring young surgeons and advocating for improved healthcare practices in South Africa.

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Angus Ogilvy

English businessman and entrepreneur
Born
September 14th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2004 20 years ago — 76 years old

A businessman with significant contributions to various industries, including publishing and finance. Co-founded a successful advertising agency and held senior positions in several prominent companies. Engaged in charitable work and served on various boards, promoting initiatives in education and the arts. Developed a reputation for innovative business practices and strategic thinking in corporate management.

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Reggie White

American football defensive end, NFL champion
Born
1961 64 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2004 20 years ago — 43 years old

Played as a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL) from 1984 to 2000. Spent the majority of his career with the Philadelphia Eagles and the Green Bay Packers. Led the Packers to victory in Super Bowl XXXI. Received the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award twice and was selected to the Pro Bowl 13 times. Played college football at the University of Tennessee.

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Hank Garland

American guitarist and session musician
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2004 20 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent guitarist in the country and rock genres, contributed significantly to the sound of 1950s and 1960s music. Worked as a session musician for various artists and albums, demonstrating versatility across genres. Played on notable recordings, including work with Elvis Presley and other major figures in music. Released albums as a solo artist, showcasing innovative guitar techniques and styles. Also recognized for contributions to the development of the Nashville sound.

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Susan Sontag

American essayist and critic
Born
January 16th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2004 20 years ago — 71 years old

An influential novelist, essayist, and critic, this individual explored themes of culture, art, and politics through a unique lens. Major works include 'On Photography' and 'Illness as Metaphor', which dissect the complexities of visual culture and the relationship between illness and metaphor. Contributions to literary criticism and cultural theory established a significant presence in contemporary thought. This individual engaged in public debates during the 1960s and beyond, addressing various social issues through essays and lectures.

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Jerry Orbach

Actor and singer of Law & Order fame
Born
October 20th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2004 20 years ago — 69 years old

An accomplished actor and singer, celebrated for a distinguished career in theater, film, and television. Originated the role of El Gallo in the off-Broadway production of 'The Fantasticks,' contributing significantly to its long-standing success. Gained widespread recognition for portraying Detective Lennie Briscoe on the television series 'Law & Order,' which spanned 12 seasons from 1992 to 2004. Additionally, appeared in notable films such as 'Dirty Dancing' and 'Beauty and the Beast,' lending his voice to the character of Lumière. Renowned for his distinctive baritone voice, which also earned accolades on Broadway.

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Julius Axelrod

Nobel-winning American biochemist
Born
May 30th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2004 20 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1912, an American biochemist contributed to the understanding of neurotransmitters and the role of enzymes in the nervous system. Worked at the National Institutes of Health, focusing on the biochemistry of neurotransmission. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1970 for research on the mechanisms of action of neurotransmitters. Held a faculty position at George Washington University and published numerous scientific articles throughout the career.

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Artie Shaw

Clarinetist and bandleader, influential composer
Born
May 23rd, 1910 114 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2004 20 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent clarinet player, composer, and bandleader, this musician gained recognition during the Swing Era of the 1930s and 1940s. Shaw's band achieved major popularity with the hit song "Begin the Beguine," which displayed his sophisticated musical style. Aside from leading successful big bands, he composed several pieces that showcased his innovative approach. Shaw's influence extended beyond the clarinet, as he embraced classical music elements within his jazz compositions. He collaborated with notable musicians and made significant contributions to the development of modern jazz.

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