What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

Ignacio Ponseti

Orthopedic physician, Ponseti method creator
Born
June 3rd, 1914 110 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 95 years old

A Spanish physician and orthopedist developed a non-surgical treatment for congenital clubfoot, which transformed the standard of care for this condition. The Ponseti method emphasizes gentle manipulation and the use of casts to correct foot positioning, followed by the use of a brace to maintain correction. The technique significantly reduced the need for surgical intervention and improved outcomes for patients worldwide. The method gained widespread recognition and adoption in pediatric orthopedics for its effectiveness and simplicity.

Continue Reading

Allan Ekelund

Swedish director and producer
Born
January 16th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 91 years old

Significant contributions were made in the Swedish film industry as a director and producer. Involved in various film projects, including roles as a production manager. Worked on both feature films and television productions, leaving a mark through a combination of technical expertise and creative vision.

Continue Reading

Leon Kirchner

American composer and educator
Born
January 24th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 90 years old

An influential composer and educator in 20th-century American music, contributions included symphonic works, operas, chamber music, and choral pieces. Teaching positions included faculties at Harvard University and the University of California, Berkeley. Winner of the Pulitzer Prize in Music for the String Quartet No. 3 in 1967, also served as a consultant for the National Endowment for the Arts.

Continue Reading

Philip José Farmer

American science fiction author
Born
January 26th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 91 years old

An influential science fiction author who created richly detailed worlds and complex characters. Authored the 'Riverworld' series, which explores themes of reincarnation and immortality. Published works include 'To Your Scattered Bodies Go' and 'The Lovers', demonstrating a unique blend of science fiction and fantasy elements. Also wrote under different pseudonyms, expanding the range of narratives explored across various genres.

Continue Reading

Peter Arundell

Race car driver with success in Formula One
Born
November 8th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 76 years old

Engaged in motorsport as a race car driver, primarily competed in Formula One during the early 1960s. Achieved notable results with the Team Lotus and drove a variety of cars, including the Lotus 24. Contributed to the development of competitive racing techniques and participated in several Grand Prix events throughout his career. Also raced in the British Saloon Car Championship and secured significant podium finishes.

Continue Reading

Kenny Rankin

American singer-songwriter of 'Penny Lane'
Born
February 10th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 69 years old

An American singer-songwriter enjoyed a successful career that spanned several decades. Gained recognition with the release of the album 'Inside' in 1972, featuring a cover of 'Penny Lane' which showcased a distinct style combining elements of folk, jazz, and pop. Released multiple albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, contributing to the musical landscape with original songs and covers. Performed with artists such as Frank Sinatra and Paul Simon, further solidifying a place in the music industry. Continued to perform and release music until passing away in 2009.

Continue Reading

Lou Creekmur

American football player and sportscaster
Born
January 22nd, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 82 years old

Played as an offensive tackle in the National Football League for the Detroit Lions from 1950 to 1958. Contributed to the team's success in winning three NFL championships during the 1950s. After retiring from professional football, transitioned into a career in broadcasting, working as a sportscaster. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1996, recognizing impactful contributions to the sport.

Continue Reading

Moyra Fraser

Actress known for 'The Small World of Sammy Lee'
Born
December 3rd, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 86 years old

Born in December 1923, one influential figure in the entertainment industry, recognized for contributions to acting, singing, and dancing. Lived and worked primarily in Australia and England, building a successful career in theatre and television. Played pivotal roles in various productions, with a standout performance in 'The Small World of Sammy Lee.' Worked extensively in British television during the 1960s and 1970s. Also featured in numerous stage performances, further establishing a strong presence in the arts community.

Continue Reading

Israel Gelfand

Mathematician and biologist, Gelfand Transform
Born
September 2nd, 1913 111 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 96 years old

Contributions to mathematics included work in functional analysis, representation theory, and differential equations. Significant influence on the theory of distributions, known for developing tools like the Gelfand transform. In biology, contributions included the mathematical modeling of biological processes. Authored numerous seminal textbooks and papers, shaping future research in mathematics and its applications.

Continue Reading