What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

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.

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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.

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Pearl Hackney

English actress with stage and TV roles
Born
October 28th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 93 years old

Born in England, an actress gained recognition for stage performances and television roles. Active primarily from the mid-20th century, appeared in productions including 'The Forsyte Saga' and 'Doctor Who'. Worked extensively in British theater, contributing to numerous renowned plays and performances.

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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.

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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.

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Dennis Brutus

South African poet and anti-apartheid activist
Born
November 28th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 85 years old

An influential voice in the struggle against apartheid, a prominent poet and journalist emerged from South Africa. Involvement in anti-apartheid movements began in the 1940s. Detained for his activism, continued to advocate for justice and equality during imprisonment and exile. Returned to South Africa in 1990, contributing to the nation's literary and academic landscape. Worked as a professor at several universities, focusing on literature and social justice.

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Simple Kapadia

Indian actress and costume designer
Born
August 15th, 1958 66 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 51 years old

Began a career in acting in the late 1970s. Gained prominence as an actress in films such as 'Batwara', 'Rakhwala', and 'Kshatriya'. Transitioned to costume design, contributing to numerous Bollywood films. Won a Filmfare Award for Best Costume Design for the film 'Baazigar'. Worked in the industry until the untimely demise in 2009.

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Kent Douglas

Ice Hockey Player and Coach
Born
February 6th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 73 years old

Played professional ice hockey primarily as a defenseman from the late 1950s to the early 1970s. Appeared in over 300 NHL games with teams including the New York Rangers and the Detroit Red Wings. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, applying extensive playing experience to develop future players in various leagues.

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Sammy Petrillo

Actor and comedian, featured in films
Born
October 24th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 75 years old

An American actor and comedian, gained prominence in the 1950s primarily as a comic foil to established stars. Became well-known for roles in films that combined humor and music. Also achieved recognition for performances that echoed the style of iconic entertainers of the era. Contributed to the entertainment scene with a distinct persona that drew on parody and imitation.

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