What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

Robert Dhéry

French actor and director in theater
Born
April 27th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 83 years old

An influential figure in French cinema and theater, active from the mid-20th century. Worked as an actor, director, and screenwriter. Contributed to numerous theatrical productions and films, establishing a style that blended humor with musical elements. Involvement in the celebrated theatrical company, Les Branquignols, created a unique space for comedy in French theater. Directed and starred in the film 'Les Aventures de Rabbi Jacob', which became a classic of French cinema.

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Cotton Fitzsimmons

Basketball coach with a championship win
Born
October 7th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 73 years old

Cotton Fitzsimmons was an American basketball player and coach. He played for the St. Louis Hawks in the NBA and later transitioned to coaching. Fitzsimmons served as the head coach for several teams, including the Phoenix Suns, where he led the team to notable playoff success. He was a key figure in the development of the team during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Throughout his career, he garnered respect for his strategic approach to the game and his ability to develop players.

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Raymond Goethals

Football coach, led Marseille to victory
Born
October 7th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent football coach, led the French club Olympique de Marseille to win the UEFA Champions League in 1993. Transitioned from a player to a successful manager, building teams that executed strategic and effective game plans. Achieved notable success in Belgian football, securing multiple league titles. Established a reputation for developing talent and fostering competitive teams across various leagues.

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John McGeoch

Scottish guitarist, band member of Siouxsie
Born
August 25th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 49 years old

A Scottish guitarist gained recognition in the post-punk music scene. Played guitar for bands such as Magazine and Siouxsie and the Banshees. Contributed to the albums 'Real Life' and 'The Scream,' showcasing innovative guitar techniques and sound exploration. Worked with various artists throughout the 1980s, including the band Primal Scream. His work left a mark on the genre and influenced subsequent musicians.

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Soko Richardson

American drummer known for jazz performances
Born
December 8th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1939, an American drummer specialized in jazz. Gained recognition for contributions to various jazz ensembles and performances. Collaborated with prominent artists, showcasing exceptional drumming skills and creativity. Participated in numerous recordings and live performances throughout the career. Renowned for a unique style that combined technical proficiency with expressive artistry.

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Rudy LaRusso

Basketball player and All-Star forward
Born
November 11th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 67 years old

Played professional basketball in the NBA primarily for the Philadelphia/San Francisco Warriors and the Detroit Pistons. Career spanned from 1958 to 1968, with notable performances that earned All-Star selections. Contributed to the Warriors during the 1961-62 season, finishing with an average of 18.4 points per game. Also played for the Pistons achieving a reputation for strong scoring and rebounding skills.

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Mac Dre

American rapper and Thizz Entertainment founder
Born
July 5th, 1970 54 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 34 years old

Originated from California, this rapper and producer significantly shaped the hyphy movement in hip hop. Established Thizz Entertainment, a record label that became a platform for numerous artists in the genre. Released several albums that contributed to the West Coast rap scene, including 'Young Black Brotha' and 'California Livin'. His unique style and collaborative efforts influenced many in the industry, fostering a substantial following. The legacy continued posthumously through various projects and tributes.

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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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Bob Stokoe

Football player and manager; FA Cup winner
Born
September 21st, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 74 years old

Stokoe was an English footballer who primarily played as a defender. He began his career at Newcastle United, making significant contributions to the team's success. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to management, where he led Sunderland to victory in the 1973 FA Cup, an unexpected triumph against Leeds United. This victory remains one of the standout moments in his managerial career. Additionally, he managed various clubs, including Wigan Athletic and Workington, demonstrating a commitment to developing football at the grassroots level.

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