What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

Soko Richardson

American drummer known for jazz performances
Born
December 8th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2004 22 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 88 years ago
Died
2004 22 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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Bob Stokoe

Football player and manager; FA Cup winner
Born
September 21st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2004 22 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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Aaron Bank

American colonel and military leader
Born
November 23rd, 1902 123 years ago
Died
2004 22 years ago — 102 years old

Served as a colonel in the United States Army during World War II. Led the Office of Strategic Services' (OSS) efforts in the Italian Campaign, where played a crucial role in coordinating resistance movements against Axis forces. After the war, became an influential figure in the establishment of Special Forces within the U.S. Army. Actively participated in training and organization of Special Forces units, contributing to the development of unconventional warfare tactics.

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Bernard Levin

Journalist and broadcaster, The Times
Born
August 19th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2004 22 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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Roy Bull

Rugby League Player, Sydney Roosters Captain
Born
June 12th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2004 22 years ago — 75 years old

An Australian rugby league player played as a forward. Played primarily for the Sydney Roosters in the New South Wales Rugby League competition. Captained the Sydney Roosters, leading the team during competitive seasons. Represented New South Wales and Australia at the representative level, participating in various international matches.

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Bruce Boa

Canadian actor in 'Star Wars'
Born
July 10th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2004 22 years ago — 74 years old

An actor with a career spanning several decades. Appeared in prominent roles on screen and television. Gained recognition for performances in the film 'Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope' as General Jan Dodonna and in the television series 'The X-Files'. Participated in various theater productions, contributing to the performing arts in Canada and abroad. Most work took place during the 1970s and 1980s, showcasing a range of character portrayals that resonated with audiences.

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Jason Dunham

American soldier, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
November 10th, 1981 44 years ago
Died
2004 22 years ago — 23 years old

Served in the United States Marine Corps as a sergeant. Participated in the Iraq War and displayed exceptional bravery during combat operations in 2004. While engaged in a firefight in Ramadi, jumped on a grenade to protect fellow Marines, sustaining fatal injuries. Awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously for courageous actions that saved the lives of others.

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Sid Smith

Ice hockey player and coach, team captain
Born
July 11th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2004 22 years ago — 79 years old

A Canadian ice hockey player and coach, played as a forward primarily for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the NHL. Smith served as captain of the team during the 1950s, contributing to their success. After retiring as a player, transitioned to coaching, leading various teams in different leagues. His playing style and leadership on the ice are remembered by hockey enthusiasts.

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