What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

Allen Shellenberger

Drummer for the band Hoobastank
Born
September 15th, 1969 55 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 40 years old

A talented drummer contributed significantly to the rock band Hoobastank, which gained fame in the early 2000s. The band's music, characterized by its post-grunge sound, included hits such as 'The Reason' and 'Crawling in the Dark.' Shellenberger's work helped the band secure multiple awards and nominations, including Billboard Music Awards. In addition to performing, he was involved in the songwriting process and contributed to the band's creative direction, shaping their sound and lyrical themes until his passing in 2008.

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Red Kerr

Basketball player and coach, Chicago Bulls
Born
July 17th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 77 years old

A professional basketball player and coach, this individual played as a center in the National Basketball Association (NBA). A standout at the University of Illinois, began a successful career with the Chicago Bulls. Transitioned from playing to coaching, leading teams in both the NBA and the American Basketball Association (ABA). His contributions to the game extended beyond the court, focusing on player development and mentoring younger athletes.

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Ted Sampley

POW/MIA activist and writer
Born
July 17th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1946, this individual became a notable activist focused on the issues concerning American prisoners of war and missing in action personnel. After serving in the Vietnam War, dedicated much of life to advocating for the rights and recognition of veterans and their families. Involved in various organizations, worked extensively to raise awareness about veterans' issues through writing, including articles and editorials published in various outlets. Engaged in public speaking and grassroots efforts to promote initiatives aimed at accounting for missing soldiers.

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Jack Cover

Inventor of the Taser gun
Born
April 6th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 89 years old

A pilot and physicist, contributed to the development of electroshock weapons. Invented the Taser gun in the 1970s as a non-lethal alternative for law enforcement. The device gained significant attention for its use in policing and self-defense. Worked for the aerospace industry prior to focusing on the Taser project, which aimed to reduce the threats posed by armed confrontations. The invention has been widely adopted in various public safety applications.

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Ivy Matsepe-Casaburri

South African politician and minister
Born
September 18th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1937, served in various government roles in South Africa. Played a significant role as the Minister of Communications from 2004 to 2009, influencing policies in the telecommunications sector. Participated in the anti-apartheid movement and was involved in the African National Congress during its struggle for liberation. Held leadership positions in different organizations promoting education and community development.

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Valentin Varennikov

Russian general and politician
Born
December 15th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1923, a general in the Soviet Army and a significant political figure in Russia. Played a prominent role during the Soviet-Afghan War and served as a Deputy of the State Duma. Participated in military operations and leadership missions that shaped moments in Russian military history. Worked within various military and political structures, impacting strategic decisions.

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Samuel Victor Perry

English biochemist and rugby player
Born
July 16th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 91 years old

This individual contributed to biochemistry, focusing on the study of enzyme activity and metabolic processes. Additionally, rugby union played a significant role in athletic pursuits, where competing with the England national rugby team occurred during the late 1940s. Throughout the career in sports, attended numerous international matches, contributing to the team's efforts in the post-war international rugby scene.

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Irving Kristol

Journalist and founder of The National Interest
Born
January 22nd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent American journalist, author, and academic, contributed significantly to political thought and policy discussion through various writings and publications. Founded The National Interest, a political magazine, which provided analysis and commentary on foreign policy and national security issues. Contributed to the formation of neoconservative thought in the United States, influencing political discourse during the late 20th century. Also held editorial roles in various publications, shaping the intellectual landscape of American conservatism.

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Bruno Beger

German anthropologist and ethnologist
Born
April 27th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 98 years old

An anthropologist and ethnologist, contributed to research on racial theories and human populations. Worked in the field of anthropology during the mid-20th century, with a focus on physical anthropology and ethnology. Conducted studies in various regions, including South America and the Arctic, investigating cultural and physical characteristics of indigenous populations. Associated with highly controversial aspects of anthropology during the Nazi regime, leading to ethical debates regarding his methodologies and findings.

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