What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

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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Don Cornell

American Singer with chart-topping hits
Born
April 21st, 1919 106 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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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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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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Carlos Kleiber

Conductor celebrated for operatic mastery
Born
July 3rd, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 74 years old

Recognized as one of the most accomplished conductors in the 20th century, this conductor gained acclaim for interpretations of operas and orchestral works. Musical education continued in Berlin and Vienna, leading to conducting debuts in the 1950s. Major partnerships included the Vienna State Opera and the Berlin Philharmonic, where performances of compositions by Mozart, Wagner, and Strauss were particularly distinguished. Renowned recordings of 'La Traviata' and 'Die Fledermaus' further solidified his status in classical music circles. Known for an elusive public persona, engagements remained selective throughout a celebrated career, culminating in a significant influence on the art of conducting.

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Terje Bakken

Norwegian singer-songwriter with solo albums
Born
September 3rd, 1978 46 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 26 years old

A Norwegian singer-songwriter, recognized for contributions to the music scene with a unique blend of folk and pop influences. Released multiple solo albums, showcasing original compositions that highlight personal and emotional themes. Gained attention in the late 1990s and continued to evolve artistically in subsequent years, building a loyal fan base both in Norway and internationally. Engaged in various musical collaborations, expanding creative horizons and influencing other artists in the genre.

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Harold Henning

Professional Golfer and PGA Tour Champion
Born
October 3rd, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 70 years old

A professional golfer from South Africa, achievements include winning multiple tournaments on the PGA Tour and the South African Open Championship. Competed in various international events, gaining recognition for consistent performances throughout the career. Participated in the Masters Tournament and represented South Africa in numerous golfing competitions. Contributed to the sport's growth in the country and inspired future generations of golfers.

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George Yardley

Basketball player, 1st NBA All-Star
Born
November 3rd, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 76 years old

Played professional basketball in the NBA during the 1950s. Began career with the Detroit Pistons and later played for the New York Knicks. Recognized as the first player to score 2,000 points in a single NBA season. Earned selection to the NBA All-Star Game in 1953, marking a significant achievement in a competitive league. Contributed to the growth of basketball as a professional sport in America.

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Jimmy McLarnin

Boxer, actor, and golfer
Born
December 19th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 97 years old

Competed as a professional boxer during the 1920s and 1930s, achieving recognition as a welterweight champion. Secured the title in 1933 and was involved in several significant bouts, including matches against notable fighters such as Barney Ross and Lou Ambers. Transitioned to acting, appearing in various films in the 1940s, and maintained a passion for golf throughout life. Ranks among the top boxers of his era, earning accolades for performances and contributions to the sport.

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