What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

Bob Tisdall

Irish Olympic hurdles gold medalist
Born
May 16th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 97 years old

Competed in athletics, specializing in hurdles. Achieved a prominent career highlight by winning the gold medal in the 400-meter hurdles at the 1932 Summer Olympics held in Los Angeles. Developed a reputation as a skilled and competitive hurdler during the 1930s, representing Ireland in various international competitions. In addition to Olympic success, participated in numerous championships, showcasing notable performances in hurdles and establishing a legacy in the sport.

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K. Arulanandan

Ceylon-American engineer and academic
Born
August 2nd, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Ceylon, an influential engineer and academic made significant contributions in the field of engineering education. Served as a professor and held leadership roles at various educational institutions, fostering growth in engineering curricula. Played a key role in developing educational programs that integrated practical experience with theoretical knowledge, enhancing the quality of engineering training. Migrated to the United States and continued to impact the academic landscape through innovative teaching methods and research initiatives in engineering disciplines.

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Don Cornell

American Singer with chart-topping hits
Born
April 21st, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1919, a prominent American singer recognized for a successful career in pop music during the mid-20th century. Gained popularity for his smooth vocal style and romantic ballads. Rose to fame in the 1940s and 1950s, achieving numerous hits on the Billboard charts. Notable for the song 'I'll Be Home' which became a significant pop standard. Collaborated with various orchestras and recorded albums that contributed to a lasting musical legacy.

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Sergei Zholtok

Latvian ice hockey player and forward
Born
December 2nd, 1972 52 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 32 years old

Played professional ice hockey in various leagues, including the NHL. Competed for teams such as the Ottawa Senators and the Minnesota Wild. Represented Latvia in international competitions, including the IIHF World Championships.

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Ken Burkhart

Baseball player and umpire
Born
November 18th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 89 years old

Played as a professional baseball player in Major League Baseball. Transitioned to umpiring, officiating in the National League for over two decades. Participated in three World Series as an umpire, demonstrating significant expertise in the sport. Contributed to the development of umpiring standards and practices during a critical period in baseball history.

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Mei Zhi

Chinese author and essayist
Born
June 22nd, 1914 110 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1914, this individual became a significant figure in Chinese literature and culture. Writing extensively throughout a career that spanned several decades, produced numerous essays, stories, and literary critiques. Focused on themes related to personal experiences, identity, and Chinese society. Engaged in literary criticism and was involved in publishing, contributing to the promotion of literature in China during the 20th century. Advocated for literary expression and explored issues of censorship and freedom in writing, particularly during turbulent political times.

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Umberto Agnelli

Businessman and politician, Fiat executive
Born
November 1st, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 70 years old

Born in Switzerland, a businessman and politician, focused on the automotive industry. Served as the chairman of Fiat S.p.A. from 1996 to 2003, contributing to the company's strategy and operations during a transformative period. Involved in social responsibilities and various philanthropic initiatives. Played a significant role in navigating the challenges faced by the Fiat Group in the early 2000s. Elected to the Italian parliament, representing interests tied to the family-owned business and broader economic policies.

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Leonard Birchall

Royal Canadian Air Force pilot
Born
July 6th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a pilot in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. Captured by Japanese forces in 1941 while serving in the Far East. Endured hardships as a prisoner of war for three and a half years. Returned to Canada after the war and contributed to the development of the Canadian Air Cadet program.

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Lee Guttero

American Basketball Player
Born
July 1st, 1913 111 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 91 years old

Played professional basketball primarily for the Chicago American Gears during the 1940s. Guttero competed in the Basketball Association of America and later in the National Basketball Association. His career included participation in various basketball leagues, showcasing skills as a guard. He gained recognition for his contributions to the game during an era that helped shape professional basketball in America.

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