What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

Dnyaneshwar Agashe

Indian businessman and cricketer
Born
April 17th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 67 years old

A businessman and cricketer from India, contributed significantly to the sport of cricket in the domestic circuit. Played as a wicketkeeper-batsman for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy. In addition to his sports career, involved in various business ventures, including the promotion of educational initiatives in Maharashtra.

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Bleddyn Williams

Welsh rugby player and sportscaster
Born
February 22nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 86 years old

A rugby union player who played primarily as a three-quarter for Cardiff and the Welsh national team. Williams earned 30 caps and participated in the 1950, 1951, and 1953 Five Nations Championships. He scored 11 tries for Wales. After retiring from playing, Williams transitioned into broadcasting, becoming a well-regarded sportscaster, particularly for his commentary on rugby matches. He was known for his insightful analysis and connection to the sport.

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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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Leonore Annenberg

Businesswoman and diplomat with philanthropy
Born
February 20th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent businesswoman and diplomat, contributed significantly to various philanthropic efforts. Served as the U.S. Ambassador to Belgium from 1976 to 1977. Held leadership positions within the Annenberg Foundation, focusing on education and the arts. Worked on initiatives that supported museum exhibitions and educational programs.

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Tommy Henrich

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
February 20th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 96 years old

Played Major League Baseball as an outfielder, primarily for the New York Yankees from 1937 to 1942 and again from 1946 to 1950. Participated in the Yankees' success during the late 1930s and through the 1940s, contributing to several pennant wins and four World Series championships. Served as a sportscaster following retirement from playing, providing commentary and analysis on baseball games.

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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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Richard T. Whitcomb

Aeronautical engineer; supercritical wings
Born
February 21st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 88 years old

Contributions to aeronautical engineering included the development of the supercritical wing design, which improved the aerodynamic efficiency of aircraft at transonic speeds. Work in the 1950s at Langley Research Center led to significant advancements in flight performance and stability. Whitcomb's research influenced the design of modern airliners and contributed to the understanding of airflow over wings.

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Paula Hawkins

American politician, U.S. Senator
Born
January 24th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 82 years old

Paula Hawkins served as a U.S. Senator from Florida from 1977 to 1989. She was the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate from Florida. Prior to her Senate service, Hawkins was involved in Florida state politics and served as a member of the Florida House of Representatives. During her tenure in the Senate, she focused on issues such as women's rights, health care, and environmental protection. After leaving the Senate, she remained active in politics and public service.

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Frank Costigan

Australian lawyer and politician, prominent figure
Born
January 14th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent Australian lawyer and politician practiced law and served in various political roles. Played a significant part in government and contributed to legal reforms. Held membership in the Australian Senate, representing the Australian Labor Party. Instrumental in advancing issues of public concern through legislative processes.

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