What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

Gerrie Knetemann

Dutch professional cyclist and champion
Born
March 6th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 53 years old

A professional cyclist, active from the late 1960s to the 1980s, achieved significant success in both road and track cycling. Competed in multiple editions of the Tour de France, winning a stage in 1971. Secured the Dutch National Road Race title in 1974 and earned a bronze medal in the road race at the 1976 Summer Olympics. Specialized in one-day races and was known for strong finishes and tactical acumen.

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Katherine Victor

American actress from 'The Phantom Planet'
Born
August 18th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 81 years old

An American actress gained recognition primarily for roles in films and television during the mid-20th century. Achieved prominence through the science fiction film 'The Phantom Planet,' released in 1961. Contributed to the genre with various performances, participating in both independent and mainstream productions. Worked alongside notable figures in the film and television industry, showcasing a range of acting abilities across different narratives.

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Jason Dunham

American soldier, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
November 10th, 1981 43 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 23 years old

Served in the United States Marine Corps as a sergeant. Participated in the Iraq War and displayed exceptional bravery during combat operations in 2004. While engaged in a firefight in Ramadi, jumped on a grenade to protect fellow Marines, sustaining fatal injuries. Awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously for courageous actions that saved the lives of others.

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Bruce Boa

Canadian actor in 'Star Wars'
Born
July 10th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 74 years old

An actor with a career spanning several decades. Appeared in prominent roles on screen and television. Gained recognition for performances in the film 'Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope' as General Jan Dodonna and in the television series 'The X-Files'. Participated in various theater productions, contributing to the performing arts in Canada and abroad. Most work took place during the 1970s and 1980s, showcasing a range of character portrayals that resonated with audiences.

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Roy Bull

Rugby League Player, Sydney Roosters Captain
Born
June 12th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 75 years old

An Australian rugby league player played as a forward. Played primarily for the Sydney Roosters in the New South Wales Rugby League competition. Captained the Sydney Roosters, leading the team during competitive seasons. Represented New South Wales and Australia at the representative level, participating in various international matches.

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Irina Press

Ukrainian-Russian Olympian pentathlete
Born
March 10th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 65 years old

Competed in athletics, specializing in hurdles and the pentathlon. Achieved significant success at the Olympic Games, winning multiple medals. Secured gold in the pentathlon at the 1960 Rome Olympics, earning recognition as a top athlete in the sport. Also participated in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, contributing to her reputation as a leading figure in athletics during her era.

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Clint Warwick

Bass player for The Moody Blues
Born
June 25th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 64 years old

A bass player contributed significantly to the formation of The Moody Blues, a rock band formed in the 1960s. The band achieved recognition with the 1967 album 'Days of Future Passed', which was one of the first successful concept albums in rock music. Warwick's style and musical contributions were integral to the band's early sound, which combined rock with orchestral elements. In 1969, he left the band and was replaced by another bassist, continuing to influence the music scene.

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Heinz Wallberg

Conductor with acclaimed orchestral works
Born
March 16th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 81 years old

Born in Germany in 1923, this conductor had a significant influence in the classical music scene throughout his career. Wallberg conducted renowned orchestras, including the Munich Philharmonic and the Hessian Radio Symphony Orchestra. He held prominent positions with various international orchestras, showcasing his expertise in interpreting a wide range of classical repertoire. His recordings, particularly of works by composers such as Richard Strauss and Carl Orff, received critical acclaim and contributed to the appreciation of these composers. Wallberg's contributions to music education also played a vital role in nurturing future generations of musicians.

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Bernard Levin

Journalist and broadcaster, The Times
Born
August 19th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 76 years old

An influential English journalist, author, and broadcaster contributed extensively to The Times and other publications. Leveraged insight into politics, culture, and society through impactful columns. Authored several books, providing commentary and analysis on a range of topics, including social issues and literature. Regularly appeared on television and radio, engaging audiences with sharp wit and intellect.

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