What Happened This Year 2004

People Who Died in 2004

John Mayer

Indian composer and musician
Born
October 16th, 1977 47 years ago
Died
March 9th, 2004 21 years ago — 26 years old

An influential composer and musician, contributed significantly to Indian classical music. Worked extensively in film scoring and collaborative projects. Also engaged in music education, inspiring younger generations of musicians.

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Milton Resnick

Painter, Abstract Expressionism
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2004 21 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent figure in Abstract Expressionism, contributed significantly to the New York School of painting. Emigrated from Russia in childhood, later studied at the National Academy of Design and the New School for Social Research. Established a unique style characterized by large canvases, vibrant colors, and textured surfaces. Served as a professor at various institutions, mentoring the next generation of artists. Resnick's work remains influential in modern art circles.

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Franz König

Austrian cardinal and theologian
Born
August 3rd, 1905 119 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2004 21 years ago — 98 years old

A prominent cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church, contributions spanned religious leadership and ecumenical dialogue. Served as the Archbishop of Vienna from 1956 to 1985. Active in interfaith relations and worked towards reconciliation between different Christian denominations. Participated in the Second Vatican Council, influencing key developments in modern Church practices and positions. Advocated for social justice issues and engaged in various charitable activities throughout his life.

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John Pople

Chemist, Nobel Prize in Chemistry
Born
October 31st, 1925 99 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2004 21 years ago — 78 years old

A chemist and academic contributed to the development of computational methods in quantum chemistry. His work provided significant insights into chemical processes, leading to advancements in molecular modeling. Pople's pioneering efforts in the field established new methods for computational simulations in chemistry. He collaborated with various institutions and made lasting contributions that shaped modern chemistry practices. Pople was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1998 for his foundational contributions to computational quantum chemistry.

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Philippe Lemaire

French actor in film and television
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2004 21 years ago — 77 years old

Philippe Lemaire was a French actor who gained recognition in the film and television industry. He appeared in numerous films during the 1950s and 1960s, contributing to various cinematic projects. Lemaire engaged in television productions, enhancing his recognition among audiences. His career spanned several decades, where he showcased his acting skills across different genres and formats.

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Bill Pickering

Scientist, engineer, space program leader
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2004 21 years ago — 94 years old

An engineer and physicist, contributed significantly to the development of rocket technologies and space exploration. Worked on the design and deployment of numerous satellite systems, including the Pioneer and Voyager missions that explored the outer planets. Served as the director of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and played a crucial role in the advancement of the United States' space capabilities.

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Vilém Tauský

Czech conductor and composer
Born
July 20th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
March 16th, 2004 21 years ago — 93 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of classical music as a conductor and composer. Held prominent positions with several orchestras across Europe and the United States. Worked extensively in the UK, leading various orchestral performances and radio broadcasts. Composed works that blended Czech folk elements with classical traditions. Contributed to the revitalization of Czech music during the 20th century.

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Harrison McCain

Businessman, co-founded McCain Foods
Born
November 3rd, 1927 97 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2004 21 years ago — 76 years old

A Canadian businessman co-founded McCain Foods, one of the largest frozen food companies globally. Initiated the company in 1957 with his brothers, Harrison played a significant role in expanding its operations and product lines. McCain Foods became recognized for its frozen French fries and other potato products, dominating the market in several regions. The company expanded beyond Canada, establishing a presence in multiple countries and growing its brand internationally until its status as a leading player in the food industry was well-established.

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Mitchell Sharp

Canadian politician and economist
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2004 21 years ago — 93 years old

Served as an influential figure in Canadian politics and economics. Held the position of 23rd Canadian Minister of Finance from 1963 to 1965. Contributed to various economic policies during a significant period in Canada’s economic development. Played a key role in the establishment of key economic structures and strategies that shaped modern Canadian fiscal policy.

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