What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

Raymond Goethals

Football coach, led Marseille to victory
Born
October 7th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent football coach, led the French club Olympique de Marseille to win the UEFA Champions League in 1993. Transitioned from a player to a successful manager, building teams that executed strategic and effective game plans. Achieved notable success in Belgian football, securing multiple league titles. Established a reputation for developing talent and fostering competitive teams across various leagues.

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Cotton Fitzsimmons

Basketball coach with a championship win
Born
October 7th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 73 years old

Cotton Fitzsimmons was an American basketball player and coach. He played for the St. Louis Hawks in the NBA and later transitioned to coaching. Fitzsimmons served as the head coach for several teams, including the Phoenix Suns, where he led the team to notable playoff success. He was a key figure in the development of the team during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Throughout his career, he garnered respect for his strategic approach to the game and his ability to develop players.

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Robert Dhéry

French actor and director in theater
Born
April 27th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 83 years old

An influential figure in French cinema and theater, active from the mid-20th century. Worked as an actor, director, and screenwriter. Contributed to numerous theatrical productions and films, establishing a style that blended humor with musical elements. Involvement in the celebrated theatrical company, Les Branquignols, created a unique space for comedy in French theater. Directed and starred in the film 'Les Aventures de Rabbi Jacob', which became a classic of French cinema.

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Arturo M. Tolentino

Diplomat and politician in the Philippines
Born
September 19th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 94 years old

Served as a prominent diplomat and politician in the Philippines. Played a crucial role in the country’s political landscape during the 20th century, notably serving as the last Secretary of Foreign Affairs before martial law was declared in 1972. Instrumental in various diplomatic negotiations and council meetings, contributing to the shaping of foreign policy.

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Mary McGrory

American journalist and author
Born
August 22nd, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent journalist and author, contributed significantly to political commentary and reporting in the United States. Worked for major publications including The Washington Star and The Washington Post, offering unique insights into political events and figures. Often wrote about prominent politicians and key national issues, influencing public discourse through op-eds and features. Authored several books that explored American politics and journalism throughout the 20th century.

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Eddie Hopkinson

Footballer and England international goalkeeper
Born
October 29th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1935, he played as a goalkeeper for various clubs, most notably for Bolton Wanderers and Blackpool. He earned selection for the England national team, earning five caps. During his time at Bolton, he contributed to the club winning the FA Cup in 1958 and the Charity Shield in 1959. His career included a stint at Blackpool where he continued to demonstrate goalkeeping skill and leadership. After retiring from professional football, he transitioned into coaching and worked in youth development.

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