What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

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.

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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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Eugene Roche

American actor; starred in 'Soap'
Born
September 22nd, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 76 years old

A prolific actor, Roche achieved prominence in television and film during the 1970s and 1980s. Frequently cast in supporting roles, he gained significant recognition for his portrayal of the character Jodie Dallas in the sitcom 'Soap'. His career included appearances in various television series and movies, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Roche also featured in daytime dramas, contributing to the genre with memorable roles.

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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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Rosalind Hicks

Literary guardian, Agatha Christie’s child
Born
August 5th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 85 years old

Born as the only child of a renowned author, a significant role as a literary guardian was fulfilled. Managing the literary estate and works of one of the best-selling authors in history, engagement in numerous adaptations and projects related to her mother's writings occurred. Actively participated in promoting the legacy of Agatha Christie through various media and public engagements.

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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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