What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

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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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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Ally MacLeod

Scottish football manager and player
Born
February 26th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 73 years old

A footballer and manager with a notable career in Scottish football. Played for Bristol City and represented Scotland at the international level. Transitioned to management, leading Aberdeen FC to a Scottish League title and guiding the Scottish national team in the 1978 FIFA World Cup. Focused on developing young talent and promoted a tactical approach during management roles. His leadership style emphasized discipline and team cohesion.

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Cecily Adams

Actress and casting director on sitcoms
Born
February 6th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 46 years old

An actress and casting director contributed significantly to television and film. Gained recognition through roles in multiple television series, particularly as a recurring character on 'Frasier.' Served as a casting director for several prominent television shows, enhancing the quality of productions. Played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of various actors during casting. Additionally, appeared in films including 'The Last Dragon' and 'The Cabin in the Woods.'

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Eric Kierans

Canadian economist and politician
Born
February 2nd, 1914 111 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 90 years old

Contributed to Canadian economic policy and served as a politician. Held the position of the first Minister of Communications in Canada. Participated in significant reforms in the telecommunications sector during the late 20th century. Was involved in various governmental activities and discussions regarding economic development.

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George Hardwick

Footballer and coach, led Middlesbrough
Born
February 2nd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 84 years old

Played as a defender and made significant contributions to the sport. Enjoyed a successful career with Middlesbrough, where achievements included winning the 1954 FA Cup. Transitioned into coaching, guiding various teams, including stints at the coaching staff level. Hardwick's commitment to football lasted throughout his life, influencing generations of players.

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Raja Ramanna

Physicist and politician from India
Born
January 28th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1925, this physicist contributed significantly to India's nuclear program and played a crucial role in the development of indigenous nuclear technology. Serving as the director of the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, he oversaw significant advancements in India's atomic energy capabilities. Additionally, this individual entered politics and served as a member of the Indian Parliament, advocating for science and technology initiatives. The contributions to both science and governance marked a notable career spanning several decades.

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Frank McMullen

Rugby player with All Blacks experience
Born
January 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1933, contributions to rugby included playing as a flanker. Represented the All Blacks, New Zealand's national team, between 1956 and 1961. During this period, participated in several Test matches, showcasing skills and physicality.

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Paul Nitze

American politician and Secretary of the Navy
Born
January 16th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 97 years old

Served as the tenth United States Secretary of the Navy from 1963 to 1967. Held significant positions within the Department of Defense, particularly during the Cold War era. Contributed to the development of U.S. defense policies and military strategy. Played a key role in the formulation of the Nixon Doctrine, which aimed to reduce American direct involvement in overseas conflicts. Engaged in various diplomatic efforts concerning arms control and military assistance to allies.

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