What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

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.

Continue Reading

Jackson Mac Low

Poet, playwright, and composer
Born
September 12th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 82 years old

Active in the avant-garde literary scene, contributed significantly to experimental poetry through innovative techniques and forms. Engaged in both sound poetry and visual poetry. Worked in collaboration with a range of artists and musicians. Influenced by the principles of chance operations, incorporated elements of performance into literary works. Also composed music, intermingling the literary with the auditory. His works were published and performed internationally, reflecting a dedication to interdisciplinary art.

Continue Reading

June Taylor

Choreographer of the June Taylor Dancers
Born
December 14th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent dancer and choreographer, this individual gained recognition for contributions to television dance from the 1950s to the 1970s. The June Taylor Dancers, a popular dance troupe, became a staple on several television shows, particularly 'The Colgate Comedy Hour' and 'The Jackie Gleason Show'. Innovative choreography showcased the talents of various performers, combining traditional dance styles with rhythmic flair, enhancing the visual appeal of television entertainment during that era. The work received critical praise and set a standard for televised musical and dance presentations.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Claude Helffer

Pianist and educator, renowned for performances
Born
June 18th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1922, this French pianist and educator specialized in contemporary music. Studied at the Paris Conservatoire and had significant collaborations with various composers. Held teaching positions at several musical institutions, influencing the next generation of musicians. Participated in numerous festivals and performances, bringing contemporary works to a broader audience.

Continue Reading

Ron Willey

Rugby league player and coach
Born
November 20th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 75 years old

Played rugby league primarily as a halfback in the 1950s and 1960s, representing Newtown in the NSWRL. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, leading multiple teams, including a tenure with the Newcastle Knights. Instructed young players and contributed to developing rugby league in Australia, particularly through coaching roles in various clubs.

Continue Reading

Wilhelm von Homburg

Boxer and actor in 'The Terminator'
Born
August 25th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 64 years old

Born in Germany, a boxer transitioned to acting, appearing in several films. Gained attention for a prominent role in 'The Terminator', where portrayed a key character. Competed in the boxing ring during the 1960s and 1970s, achieving recognition for performance and skill. His multifaceted career spanned both sports and film, showcasing talent in each.

Continue Reading

Enrique Llanes

Wrestler; key figure in Lucha Libre
Born
August 24th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 85 years old

Born in Mexico, a prominent wrestler emerged in the world of Lucha Libre, capturing the attention of fans with impressive athleticism and charisma. Active during the mid-20th century, he was integral to popularizing the sport in Mexico and abroad. His performances showcased traditional wrestling techniques blended with theatrical flair, contributing to the development of Lucha Libre as a cultural phenomenon. Llanes participated in numerous high-profile events, solidifying his status among the key figures in the wrestling community until his retirement from the ring.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading