What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

Kálmán Markovits

Hungarian water polo player, Olympic medalist
Born
August 26th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2009 17 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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Ellie Greenwich

Singer-songwriter and producer, 'Be My Baby'
Born
October 23rd, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent American singer-songwriter and producer, who significantly shaped the sound of the 1960s pop and rock music scene. Collaborated with Jeff Barry, producing a series of hit songs. Wrote and co-wrote many popular tracks, including 'Be My Baby' performed by The Ronettes and 'Chapel of Love' by The Dixie Cups. Also contributed to the success of label Phil Spector's Wall of Sound productions.

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Toni Sailer

Austrian skier and actor
Born
November 17th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2009 17 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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Francis Rogallo

Engineer, inventor of the Rogallo wing
Born
January 27th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
2009 17 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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Bill Stone

English soldier and World War II veteran
Born
September 23rd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 109 years old

Served as a soldier in the British Army during World War II. Participated in significant campaigns throughout the war, including combat operations in Europe. Contributed to military strategy and troop leadership, showcasing skills in various battlefield roles. After the war, continued to be involved in veteran affairs, advocating for the rights and recognition of fellow servicemen.

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Sverre Fehn

Architect, designed the Hedmark Museum
Born
August 14th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 85 years old

An architect from Norway focused on modernist design, contributed significantly to architectural thought and practice. Graduated from the Norwegian Institute of Technology in 1949. Established a reputation through innovative use of natural materials and integration of buildings into landscapes. The Hedmark Museum in Hamar exemplifies his philosophy of blending architecture with nature. Also engaged with various projects across Norway and abroad, incorporating cultural narratives within architectural frameworks.

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Dave Laut

Shot Putter, Olympic Competitor
Born
December 21st, 1956 69 years ago
Died
2009 17 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 98 years ago
Died
2009 17 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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Helle Virkner

Danish actress and singer, TV series star
Born
September 15th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1925, a prominent Danish actress and singer. Achieved significant recognition in Danish cinema and television throughout her career. Gained fame for performances in the popular television series 'Matador' and films such as 'Frøken nitouche' and 'Vinterbørn'. Her career spanned several decades, during which she became a beloved figure in Danish entertainment.

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