What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

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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Ingemar Johansson

Swedish race walker and Olympic medalist
Born
April 25th, 1924 101 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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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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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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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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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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Irene Fischer

Geodesist and mathematician in academia
Born
July 27th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 102 years old

Born in Austria, pursued education in mathematics and geodesy, eventually emigrating to the United States. Contributed to the field of geodesy through research and teaching. Focused on the mathematical underpinnings of earth measurement, significantly advancing knowledge in precise geodetic techniques. Held academic positions that influenced the training of future mathematicians and geodesists.

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Erich Leo Lehmann

American Statistician and Author
Born
November 20th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 92 years old

Contributions to the field of statistics included significant advancements in statistical methodology and applications. Played a pivotal role in the development of statistical theory. Co-authored influential textbooks that are widely used in academia and industry, shaping the education of numerous statisticians. Worked extensively in statistical consulting and education throughout a career spanning several decades.

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Kálmán Markovits

Hungarian water polo player, Olympic medalist
Born
August 26th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent water polo player, achieved significant success in the sport during the mid-20th century. Competed in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, earning a gold medal. Played for the Hungarian national team, contributing to numerous victories in international competitions.

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