What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

Maurice Jarre

Film composer for iconic soundtracks
Born
September 13th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2009 15 years ago — 84 years old

A composer and conductor, made significant contributions to film music. Jarre scored over 150 films, gaining major recognition for collaborations with director David Lean. Worked on the scores for classic films such as 'Lawrence of Arabia,' 'Doctor Zhivago,' and 'Ghost.' Jarre's innovative blending of orchestral elements with electronic music resonated in the film industry. Received three Academy Awards for Original Score, establishing a lasting legacy in film composition.

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Janet Jagan

6th President of Guyana
Born
October 20th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2009 15 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the 6th President of Guyana from 1997 to 1999. Held significant roles in politics and was a founding member of the People's Progressive Party. Actively involved in the fight for independence from British colonial rule and contributed to the political landscape of Guyana throughout her life. Served as the Prime Minister of Guyana prior to presidency from 1995 to 1997. Engaged in various social causes including women's rights and education.

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Andy Hallett

Actor and singer in 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer'
Born
August 4th, 1975 49 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2009 15 years ago — 33 years old

An American actor and singer, played the character Lorne in the television series 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer'. Also reprised this role in the spin-off series 'Angel'. Contributed to the show's unique blend of drama and humor through musical performances as Lorne. Notable for vocal talent, showcased in various episodes including 'Life of the Party' and 'A Hole in the World'.

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Vladimir Fedotov

Russian football manager and player
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2009 15 years ago — 66 years old

Played as a defender before transitioning to management. Achieved recognition as a successful football manager in Russia, particularly with FC Zvezda Perm. Led the team to several victories during the late 1990s and early 2000s. His contributions to Russian football as both a player and manager have been significant.

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Raúl Alfonsín

Argentine politician and lawyer
Born
March 12th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2009 15 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent Argentine lawyer and politician, served as the 46th President of Argentina from 1983 to 1989. Played a crucial role in the country's transition to democracy following a military dictatorship. Implemented significant political reforms and promoted human rights. His presidency faced numerous challenges, including hyperinflation and economic instability.

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Choor Singh

Indian-Singaporean lawyer and judge
Born
January 19th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2009 15 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1911, a prominent lawyer and judge in Singapore, played a pivotal role in the legal system during the mid-20th century. Contributed significantly to the judiciary as one of the first Asian judges in Singapore, shaping legal practices and interpretations. Engaged in various legal reforms and initiatives, highlighting the importance of justice and equality under the law. The legal career spanned several decades, influencing generations of lawyers and judges in Singapore and beyond.

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Bud Shank

Saxophonist and Flute Player with a Jazz Legacy
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2009 15 years ago — 83 years old

An American musician, primarily recognized for contributions to the jazz genre as a saxophonist and flute player. In the 1950s, created a significant presence in the West Coast jazz scene and collaborated with many notable musicians. Instrumental in the founding of the group, the Bud Shank Quartet, and released numerous albums throughout the career, showcasing an innovative approach to improvisation and arrangement. Also played in various big bands, further contributing to the jazz landscape. Continued performing and recording until the late stages of life, influencing many artists and musicians in the genre.

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Maxine Cooper

Actress in 'The Hitcher' and activist
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2009 15 years ago — 85 years old

An American actress, activist, and photographer. Gained prominence for roles in films and television, particularly noted for the role in 'The Hitcher' (1986). Involved in various social and humanitarian causes throughout life. Also explored photography as a means of artistic expression, capturing moments that reflected personal and societal themes. Continued to advocate for rights and awareness in different communities until the end of life.

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I. J. Good

British mathematician and statistician
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2009 15 years ago — 93 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and statistics. Worked on Bayesian statistics and decision theory. Developed the Good-Turing frequency estimation method. Collaborated with notable figures during World War II on cryptography, particularly in the context of codebreaking.

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