What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

Kamila Skolimowska

Polish hammer thrower with Olympic Gold
Born
November 4th, 1982 42 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 27 years old

Achieved significant success in hammer throwing, notably winning a gold medal at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Competed for Poland in multiple international competitions, with performances in various European and World Championships. Set personal bests that placed her among the top hammer throwers in history. Her career was tragically cut short by illness, but her achievements in athletics remain recognized.

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Billy Lee Riley

Rockabilly musician and producer
Born
October 5th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 76 years old

A rockabilly musician, singer-songwriter, and record producer, contributed significantly to the genre during the 1950s. Started a career in music with the iconic label Sun Records, producing hits that blended country and rhythm and blues. Gained recognition for energetic performances and distinctive sound. Riley's songs, including 'Flying Saucers Rock & Roll,' showcased the evolution of rockabilly music. Continued to perform and record into the late 20th century, influencing subsequent generations of musicians.

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Hirotugu Akaike

Statistician, developed Akaike information criterion
Born
November 5th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of statistics, particularly in model selection theory. Developed the Akaike Information Criterion, which is widely used for model evaluation and selection in various statistical modeling contexts. Worked on time series analysis and established the concept of the 'Akaike model', which allows for more robust statistical inference. Served as a professor and had a notable academic career, influencing generations of statisticians and data scientists.

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Harold Norse

American poet and author of 'Beat Hotel'
Born
July 6th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent figure in the Beat Generation, contributed significantly to American poetry and literature through a variety of poetic styles. Associated with several literary circles and communities, lived for a time in the Beat Hotel in Paris. Published numerous collections of poetry and prose, exploring themes of identity, sexuality, and the intersection of art and life. Known for both avant-garde techniques and traditional forms, his works reflect personal experiences and broader cultural observations.

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Ingemar Johansson

Swedish race walker and Olympic medalist
Born
April 25th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1924, this athlete specialized in race walking, representing Sweden in international competitions. Achievements include a bronze medal at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics in the 20 km race walk, showcasing excellence in the sport. Competed in multiple championships throughout his career, consistently ranking among the top athletes in Europe. Represented Sweden in events like the European Athletics Championships, contributing to the country's presence in race walking.

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Frank Springer

Comic book illustrator for 'Daredevil'
Born
December 6th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 80 years old

An American comic book illustrator contributed significantly to the comic book industry. Started career in the 1940s, working with several publishers. Gained recognition for work on titles such as 'Daredevil,' 'The Amazing Spider-Man,' and 'Superman.' Involved in various genres, including romance and humor comics. Also contributed to the design of comic strips and advertising art. Continued to work in the industry until retirement, leaving a notable legacy.

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Jing Shuping

Chinese businessman and entrepreneur
Born
July 7th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1918, a prominent figure in the Chinese business landscape, led various enterprises during a time of significant economic changes in China. He established a successful trading company that dealt with both domestic and international markets. Demonstrated a strong ability to navigate the complexities of China's evolving economy and contributed to local economic development. Involved in philanthropic efforts that aimed at improving community welfare and education.

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Fred Travalena

Comedian and impressionist
Born
October 6th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 67 years old

Started career in the 1960s as an impressionist and comedian, gaining popularity through comedy clubs and television appearances. Featured on shows such as 'The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson' and 'Hollywood Squares'. Created unique routines featuring impersonations of numerous celebrities. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, performed in various television specials and live events, showcasing talents as a stand-up comedian.

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Bud Shrake

Journalist and author of 'Blessed Are the Peacemakers'
Born
September 6th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 78 years old

Shrake was an American journalist, author, and screenwriter. He wrote for various publications including the Texas Monthly and was an active participant in the literary scene in Texas. His novel 'Blessed Are the Peacemakers' gained recognition for its exploration of personal and societal issues. Additionally, he contributed to screenplays for films, blending his journalistic expertise with storytelling. Shrake also authored several books, showcasing his talent in both fiction and non-fiction. His work reflected a commitment to capturing the complexities of life and the human experience.

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