What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

Adriaan Kortlandt

Ethologist and biologist focused on animal behavior
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2009 15 years ago — 91 years old

An ethologist and biologist specialized in animal behavior, contributed extensively to the understanding of animal communication and cognitive processes. Conducted fieldwork on various species, including studies in the behavior of birds and the social interactions of primates. Focused on the evolutionary aspects of behavior and its relation to human psychology. Published numerous articles and books, providing insights into the mind of animals and their interactions with the environment. Engaged in teaching and mentoring future biologists, leaving a legacy in the field of ethology.

Continue Reading

Howard Unruh

American murderer with a historic killing spree
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
October 19th, 2009 15 years ago — 88 years old

Committed the Camden, New Jersey mass shooting on September 6, 1949, resulting in the deaths of 13 people. The event marked one of the first widely publicized mass shootings in American history, drawing significant media attention. Unruh exhibited signs of severe mental illness leading up to the shooting. After the incident, he was apprehended and declared insane, ultimately spending decades in mental institutions until his death in 2009.

Continue Reading

Joseph Wiseman

Canadian-American actor in films
Born
May 15th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
October 19th, 2009 15 years ago — 91 years old

Born in Canada and later becoming a naturalized American, significant contributions to film and theater were made. Gained recognition for the role of Dr. No, the first James Bond villain, in the 1962 film of the same name. Featured in various stage productions throughout his career, showcasing a range of characters. Worked with numerous renowned directors and actors, earning a reputation for distinctive performances.

Continue Reading

Don Lane

Television host and singer
Born
November 13th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 2009 15 years ago — 75 years old

An actor, singer, and television host, became a prominent figure in Australian entertainment. Gained fame as the host of 'The Don Lane Show', a popular variety program that aired for over a decade. The show introduced many international guests to Australian audiences and became a platform for various artists. Lane also had a successful career in music, releasing albums and performing live. His work contributed to the growth of television entertainment in Australia during the 1970s and 1980s.

Continue Reading

Soupy Sales

American comedian and TV host
Born
January 8th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 2009 15 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent comedian and television host, gained fame with the children's program 'The Soupy Sales Show'. The show featured slapstick humor and interactions with puppets, becoming a fixture in American television from the late 1950s into the 1960s. Early career included stand-up comedy clubs and appearances on various game shows. Transitioned to a successful career in television, where clever antics and playful skits reached a wide audience. Continued to perform and make guest appearances in later years, maintaining a presence in entertainment.

Continue Reading

Lou Jacobi

Canadian-American actor and comedian
Born
December 28th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2009 15 years ago — 95 years old

A Canadian-American actor and comedian, achieved prominence in the entertainment industry. Gained recognition for performances in the film 'Goodbye, Columbus' and the television series 'The Golden Girls'. Active in theatre as well, appeared in productions such as 'The Merchant of Venice' and 'The Sunshine Boys'. Contributed to the world of voice acting in animated features. Active in show business from the 1940s until the 2000s.

Continue Reading

Troy Smith

Businessman, founder of Sonic Drive-In
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2009 15 years ago — 87 years old

Founded Sonic Drive-In, a fast-food restaurant chain known for its drive-in service and varied menu options. Established the first location in 1953, which focused on providing a unique dining experience where customers could order from their cars. Expanded the chain significantly, leading to thousands of locations across the United States. The company became recognized for its distinctive use of carhops and drive-thru services, creating a popular dining trend. Continued to innovate within the fast-food industry until passing away in 2009.

Continue Reading

George Naʻope

American singer and hula dancer
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2009 15 years ago — 81 years old

Contribution to the preservation and promotion of Hawaiian culture included participation in cultural festivals and performances. Achieved prominence as a performer across several venues, showcasing traditional Hawaiian music and hula dancing. Engaged audiences with innovative interpretations of classic Hawaiian songs and choreography. Educated others about Hawaiian traditions through workshops and classes.

Continue Reading

Teel Bivins

American lawyer and diplomat
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2009 15 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the 18th United States Ambassador to Sweden from 2001 to 2003. Engaged in law practice prior to diplomatic appointment. Participated in Republican Party politics, holding various positions. His career in law included significant work in the legal field in Texas. Became involved in several initiatives during tenure as ambassador, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations between the United States and Sweden.

Continue Reading