What Happened This Year 2017
People Who Died in 2017
John Kundla
A prominent basketball coach, held the position of head coach for the Minneapolis Lakers in the National Basketball Association (NBA) during the 1940s and 1950s. Under leadership, the Lakers won five NBA championships from 1949 to 1954. Kundla's coaching style emphasized teamwork and defense, contributing to the team's success and reputation. After coaching, became a respected figure in basketball, with contributions to the sport through various programs and initiatives.
Continue ReadingMichael Johnson
Played professional football primarily as a forward. Represented clubs such as Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing. Managed teams including the Jamaican national team, contributing to their football development.
Continue ReadingRonald Phillips
In 1993, an individual was convicted of the rape and murder of a 3-year-old girl in Ohio. The case received significant media attention due to the crimes' brutal nature and the subsequent trial. Following the conviction, a death sentence was imposed in 1994. Legal appeals delayed execution for many years, with several attempts to challenge the sentencing and conviction on various grounds occurring throughout the years. After years on death row, the individual was executed by lethal injection in July 2017, ending a long legal battle.
Continue ReadingPatti Deutsch
An American actress and comedian, gained recognition for appearances on game shows and television series. Contributed to shows such as 'Hollywood Squares' and 'The Match Game'. Also voiced characters in animated series like 'The Jetsons' and 'The Smurfs'. Career spanned decades, showcasing talent in improv and sketch comedy.
Continue ReadingJune Foray
An accomplished voice artist and actress with a career spanning several decades. Provided the voice of iconic characters such as Cindy Lou Who in 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas' and Rocky the Flying Squirrel in 'The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show'. Contributed to animation and television, showcasing a wide range of vocal talents. Recognized with numerous awards, including a Daytime Emmy Award in 1990 for her work in children's programming.
Continue ReadingSam Shepard
A prominent American playwright and actor, this individual gained widespread recognition for works that explored themes of family, identity, and the American experience. The play 'Buried Child' won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1979, influencing the landscape of American theatre. As an actor, involvement in films such as 'The Right Stuff' and 'Steel Magnolias' showcased versatility, transitioning between strong dramatic roles and supporting characters. The works often blended elements of surrealism with stark realism, illustrating complex interpersonal relationships and cultural narratives.
Continue ReadingJeanne Moreau
An acclaimed French actress, contributions to cinema included seminal roles in films such as 'Jules and Jim' and 'The Lovers'. Born in 1928, gained recognition for a unique ability to convey complex emotional states. Worked with notable directors, including François Truffaut and Luis Buñuel. Moreau's career spanned several decades, involving theater, film, and television, showcasing versatility across genres. Played pivotal roles in the French New Wave movement, establishing a legacy that influenced future generations of filmmakers and actors.
Continue ReadingJudith Jones
A prominent figure in the culinary world, contributed significantly to the publishing of cookbooks. Joined Knopf in 1957, where developed a keen eye for culinary literature. Played a crucial role in the success of several renowned cookbooks, including 'Mastering the Art of French Cooking' by Julia Child, which introduced French cuisine to American households. Edited works by several notable chefs and food writers, shaping the way recipes and cooking techniques were presented to the public. Continued to champion gastronomic literature throughout a lengthy career, helping to elevate cookbooks to the status of literary works.
Continue ReadingDarren Daulton
A professional baseball catcher played for the Philadelphia Phillies and the Florida Marlins during a career spanning from 1983 to 1997. Daulton was instrumental in the Phillies' success, helping the team reach the 1993 World Series. He later won a championship with the Marlins in 1997. In addition to his on-field contributions, Daulton also served as a team leader and mentor to younger players, influencing the game beyond just statistics.
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