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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Radovan Ivšić

Croatian writer and poet
Born
June 22nd, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 88 years old

A Croatian writer and poet contributed significantly to literature during the 20th century. Ivšić's works include poetry, prose, and essays that reflect various themes related to human experience and emotion. Engaged in literary circles, Ivšić played a vital role in Croatian literature, gaining recognition for his unique style and voice. His literary career spanned several decades, during which time he published numerous collections and participated in various cultural initiatives.

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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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Rica Erickson

Botanist and botanical historian
Born
August 10th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 101 years old

A prominent Australian botanist and historian, Rica Erickson dedicated much of her life to the study of Australian flora. Significant contributions included extensive research on native plants and the development of a comprehensive publication on the topic. As an author, her works provided essential insights into the field of botany and the conservation of plant species. Erickson played a key role in promoting awareness and understanding of Australia's unique botanical heritage, participating in various botanical surveys and contributing to the education of future botanists.

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Patricia De Martelaere

Philosopher, author, academic with notable writings
Born
April 16th, 1957 67 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 52 years old

Engaged in significant philosophical work, primarily focusing on ethics, aesthetics, and the philosophy of language. Contributed to academic literature with essays and books that explored complex philosophical ideas. Also served in academic roles, mentoring students and participating in various educational programs. Writings exhibit a deep inquiry into the nature of human experience and understanding.

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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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