What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

Red Robbins

American basketball player, NCAA champion
Born
September 30th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
November 18th, 2009 15 years ago — 65 years old

Played college basketball at the University of Oregon, helping the team secure the NCAA championship in 1960. Transitioned to professional basketball, competing in the American Basketball Association (ABA) and the National Basketball Association (NBA). Known for a strong scoring ability and versatility on the court. Later, served as a scout and coach, contributing to the development of future players in the sport.

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Lino Lacedelli

Italian Mountaineer, K2 First Ascent
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2009 15 years ago — 84 years old

Significant achievements in high-altitude climbing included a historic ascent of K2 in 1954 as part of an Italian expedition. This climb marked the first time the second-highest mountain in the world was successfully summited. Continued to contribute to the mountaineering community through various expeditions and training.

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Konstantin Feoktistov

Russian engineer and astronaut
Born
February 7th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2009 15 years ago — 83 years old

An engineer and astronaut contributed to Soviet space exploration. Participated in the Vostok program and flew on the Vostok 5 mission in 1963, becoming the third man to conduct a spaceflight. Developed systems and technologies used in various spacecraft. Worked extensively in the field of space engineering and contributed to advancements in the industry.

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José Arraño Acevedo

Chilean journalist and historian
Born
October 14th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 2009 15 years ago — 88 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of journalism and history in Chile. Served as editor for various publications and authored numerous works that covered Chilean history and culture. Focused on social and political issues within Chile, providing insights and analyses that shaped public understanding. Engaged with various historical events and offered critical perspectives through writing and lectures.

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Abe Pollin

Businessman and philanthropist.
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
November 24th, 2009 15 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent businessman, heavily involved in the sports industry and real estate development. Owned the Washington Wizards of the NBA and the Washington Capitals of the NHL. Played a significant role in the development of the MCI Center, a multi-purpose arena in Washington, D.C. Dedicated to philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and health care initiatives. Actively supported community projects and organizations, leaving a lasting legacy in the local area.

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Samak Sundaravej

Thai politician, 25th Prime Minister
Born
June 13th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
November 24th, 2009 15 years ago — 74 years old

Served as the 25th Prime Minister of Thailand from February to September 2008. Before premiership, held various political positions including Minister of Culture. Had a significant role in the People's Power Party and was associated with the political influence of Thaksin Shinawatra. Resigned from office due to a court ruling regarding his participation in a television cooking show while in office.

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Robert Holdstock

English author of fantasy literature
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2009 15 years ago — 61 years old

This author was a prominent figure in the fantasy genre, particularly known for the Mythago Cycle series. The first book in the series, 'Mythago Wood', was published in 1984 and received critical acclaim, winning the World Fantasy Award. The series explores themes of mythology and the human psyche, intertwining English folklore with original concepts. Throughout the career, several other works were published, contributing to the reputation as a significant voice in contemporary fantasy literature.

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Eric Woolfson

Scottish singer-songwriter and producer
Born
March 18th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2009 15 years ago — 64 years old

A Scottish singer-songwriter and producer, contributed significantly to the music industry as a key member of the rock band The Alan Parsons Project. Played piano and composed numerous songs that showcased a blend of rock and progressive elements. Woolfson wrote and sang lead vocals on many of the band’s most celebrated tracks, facilitating the release of several successful albums. His collaboration with Alan Parsons helped to shape the sound of the band, which gained recognition throughout the late 1970s and 1980s.

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Richard Todd

Actor in 'The Dam Busters'
Born
June 11th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 2009 15 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1919, an Irish-English actor gained recognition for performances in film and television. Starred in the 1955 film 'The Dam Busters', portraying Wing Commander Guy Gibson. Other notable works include 'The Hasty Heart' in 1959 and 'The Longest Day' in 1962. Todd's career spanned several decades, and he was involved in stage productions as well. He also served in the paratroopers during World War II.

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