What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

Reinhard Mohn

Businessman, founder of Bertelsmann
Born
June 29th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 88 years old

Founded the media company Bertelsmann, which became one of the largest media companies in the world. Expanded the business into publishing, broadcasting, and entertainment. Led the company through significant growth and international expansion, particularly in the digital era. Served as a key figure in the transition of Bertelsmann to a multi-national corporation.

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Don Galloway

American actor in 'Ironside'
Born
July 27th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 72 years old

An actor prominently featured in television and film, primarily recognized for the role of Ed Brown on the series 'Ironside'. Galloway's career spanned several decades, beginning in the 1960s, and included participation in various television shows and movies. His portrayal of Ed Brown contributed significantly to the series, which focused on a wheelchair-bound detective and his team solving crimes. Besides 'Ironside', Galloway appeared in numerous guest roles on popular series and made films that added to his reputation within the entertainment industry.

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Karen Harup

Danish competitive swimmer
Born
November 20th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 85 years old

A competitive swimmer achieved significant success in the 1940s and 1950s. Competed for Denmark in multiple international events. Specialized in freestyle and backstroke. Won several national titles and participated in the European Championships, securing podium finishes. Set national records that stood for years, contributing to Denmark's prominence in swimming during the post-war era.

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Dash Snow

Painter and photographer known for street art
Born
July 27th, 1981 43 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 28 years old

Born in 1981, this artist gained prominence in the early 2000s. Primarily recognized for unique street art and mixed media works, which reflected urban culture and personal experiences. Snow utilized photography to document his life and the environments he inhabited. His exhibitions included influential showcases that captured the attention of the contemporary art scene. The artist's work often explored themes of rebellion, identity, and the ephemerality of life. He passed away in 2009, leaving behind a body of work that continues to influence new generations of artists.

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Giridharilal Kedia

Businessman and education founder
Born
August 25th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 73 years old

Established the Image Institute of Technology & Management, focusing on technology and management education. Contributed to the development of technical skills in India through various training programs. Engaged in initiatives to enhance professional education and boost employability for students.

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John Cater

English actor in television and film
Born
January 17th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 77 years old

An English actor gained attention in both television and film during a career spanning several decades. Prominent roles included appearances in the classic series 'Doctor Who' and 'The Prisoner'. Cater also featured in films like 'The Great Escape' and 'The Amorous Prawn', showcasing versatility in performance across various genres. His contributions to British entertainment left a mark on the industry.

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Grayson Shillingford

Cricketer for the West Indies
Born
September 25th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 65 years old

Played as a cricketer for the West Indies national team. Participated in international matches during the 1970s. Contributed significantly to the team's performance in various test matches. Had a successful domestic career, representing multiple regional teams in the Caribbean.

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Rosanna Schiaffino

Italian actress in film and television
Born
November 25th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 71 years old

An Italian actress, starred in a variety of films primarily during the 1960s and 1970s. Gained prominence through roles in notable films such as 'The Girl Who Knew Too Much' and 'The Seventh Seal.' Worked with renowned directors and established a reputation in Italian cinema. Transitioned to television, featuring in various popular series. Her performances contributed significantly to the entertainment landscape of the era.

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Venetia Burney

Educator who named the planet Pluto
Born
July 11th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 91 years old

An English educator, contributed to astronomy by naming the planet Pluto at the age of 11. The name was suggested during a conversation with her grandfather, who was an avid astronomer. This proposal gained traction and was ultimately adopted by the astronomical community. Burney's suggestion reflected the mythological theme of naming planets after Roman gods. She pursued a career in education, teaching for several decades, and remained involved in discussions about astronomy and science education throughout her life.

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