What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

Vishnuvardhan

Indian actor in Kannada cinema
Born
September 18th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 59 years old

Vishnuvardhan was an Indian actor predominantly in Kannada cinema. His acting career spanned over four decades, appearing in more than 200 films. Recognized for versatility, roles included those in classic films such as 'Bhakta Prahlada,' 'Shiva Mechida Kannappa,' and 'Gandhada Gudi.' Received multiple awards, including the Karnataka State Film Award for Best Actor and the Filmfare Award South. Contributed significantly to Indian cinema and established a loyal fan base through various performances.

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Toni Sailer

Austrian skier and actor
Born
November 17th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 74 years old

Achieved notable success as a alpine ski racer and actor. In skiing, won three gold medals at the 1956 Winter Olympics in Cortina d'Ampezzo, dominating in the downhill, slalom, and giant slalom events. Transitioned to acting after retirement from skiing, appearing in films such as 'Der Schuh des Manitu' and 'Das Wirtshaus im Spessart'.

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Clifford Hansen

Rancher and 26th Governor of Wyoming
Born
October 16th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 97 years old

A rancher and politician, served as the 26th Governor of Wyoming from 1963 to 1967. He implemented significant policies related to economic development and public education during his tenure. After serving as governor, held a prominent role in the U.S. Senate, contributing to various legislative initiatives. His political career spanned several decades, emphasizing the importance of rural issues and community development.

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Francis Rogallo

Engineer, inventor of the Rogallo wing
Born
January 27th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 97 years old

An engineer contributed significantly to the development of flexible wings. The Rogallo wing design was initially created for use in hang gliding but later adapted for space exploration. This design was utilized in various NASA programs, including the Gemini and Apollo missions. His work laid the foundation for modern paragliding and influenced the design of spacecraft recovery systems.

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Dave Laut

Shot Putter, Olympic Competitor
Born
December 21st, 1956 68 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 53 years old

A shot putter, achieved significant success in the 1980s. Competed in the 1984 Summer Olympics, finishing seventh in the shot put event. Set a personal best throw of 21.74 meters in 1983, which was one of the top performances of the year. Dominated the shot put in national competitions, becoming a consistent presence on the podium in various championships. His athletic career included representing the United States at international competitions.

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Sam Butera

American saxophonist and bandleader
Born
August 17th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1927, a prominent saxophonist and bandleader. Gained recognition for performances in Las Vegas, particularly with Louis Prima's band. Contributed significantly to the popularization of jump blues and swing music. Led the Witnesses, a popular band in the 1950s and 1960s, known for energetic live performances. Collaborated with various artists and participated in numerous recordings.

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Paul Samuelson

Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 15th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 94 years old

An American economist and academic, contributed significantly to economic theory and analysis. Developed the neoclassical synthesis, integrating key ideas from various schools of economic thought. Authored the influential textbook "Economics," which became a standard in the field for decades. Awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1970 for his contributions to the development of modern economic theory.

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Helen Levitt

American photographer and cinematographer
Born
August 31st, 1913 111 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 96 years old

A significant figure in photography and cinematography, contributed extensively to the documentation of urban life. Focused on capturing street scenes in New York City, portraying everyday moments with a unique visual style. Worked on various films, emphasizing the beauty and complexity of ordinary surroundings. Renowned for the ability to convey compelling narratives through imagery. The work exemplified depth of observation and emotional resonance.

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Bronisław Żurakowski

Pilot and engineer of Polish aviation
Born
June 26th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1911, a notable Polish pilot and engineer contributed significantly to the field of aviation through various aircraft designs and test flights. Worked primarily with the Polish Air Force and later engaged with experimental aircraft projects. Participated in the development of the TS-11 Iskra jet trainer, which became an important aircraft in the training of pilots in Poland. Emigrated to Canada and continued his work in aviation engineering, influencing aircraft technology and safety protocols. Made contributions to several aviation organizations and remained active in the aviation community until his later years.

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