What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Fred Beckey

Mountaineer and climbing author
Born
January 14th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 94 years old

An influential mountaineer and author, contributed significantly to the climbing community through extensive first ascents and guidebooks. Wrote the seminal series 'Climbing in the Cascades' which detailed numerous climbs in the Pacific Northwest. Active in mountain climbing for over seven decades, completed numerous first ascents in North America and abroad. His passion for exploring remote peaks and documenting climbs inspired many climbers and adventurers. Beckey's life was dedicated to the pursuit of climbing and exploration, often leading expeditions to challenging terrains.

Continue Reading

Grant Hart

Singer-songwriter and guitarist, Hüsker Dü
Born
March 18th, 1961 64 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 56 years old

A singer-songwriter and guitarist from the United States, contributed significantly to the alternative rock scene. As a founding member of the influential band Hüsker Dü, collaborated on several groundbreaking albums during the 1980s. Hüsker Dü's sound combined elements of punk rock and melodic pop, paving the way for later alternative music. After the band disbanded, pursued a solo career, releasing several albums that showcased a different musical direction. Gained recognition for both songwriting and performances throughout the career.

Continue Reading

Jewel Plummer Cobb

Biologist and cancer researcher
Born
January 17th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 93 years old

Significant contributions were made in cancer research, particularly in understanding cellular development and behavior. Served as a professor of biological sciences and as an administrator at various institutions. Played a key role in promoting diversity in higher education, advocating for increased representation of minorities in the sciences.

Continue Reading

Vito Acconci

Designer and installation artist
Born
January 24th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 77 years old

Acconci was an influential American designer and installation artist. Initially recognized for experimental poetry, he transitioned to visual art and design, producing groundbreaking work in performance art and architecture. Acconci's notable works include the installation 'People's Park' and the architectural design of the Acconci Studio, where he explored the interaction between space and human behavior. His works often challenged conventional perceptions of art and space, integrating elements of performance, architecture, and urban design.

Continue Reading

Anne Jeffreys

American actress and singer in television
Born
January 26th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 94 years old

An actress and singer, this individual gained recognition for performances in the television series 'Topper' and 'General Hospital'. Debuted in film in the 1940s, showcasing talents in musicals and comedies. Fostered a long career in entertainment, appearing in movies like 'The Bachelor and the Bobby-Soxer' and various television shows. Continued to perform on stage and screen well into later years, maintaining a presence in the industry.

Continue Reading

Greg Antonacci

Actor, director, producer, and screenwriter
Born
February 2nd, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 70 years old

Greg Antonacci worked extensively in the entertainment industry as an actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. Notable contributions include work on the acclaimed series 'The Sopranos,' where he held the position of director and producer. He also directed episodes of 'The Bronx Is Burning' and 'The Violent Land.' In addition to television, Antonacci produced features and worked in various capacities across film and stage productions throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Gordon Downie

Canadian singer-songwriter and musician
Born
February 6th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent singer-songwriter, guitarist, and actor, this individual gained recognition as the lead vocalist of the rock band The Tragically Hip. The band became a staple in Canadian music, celebrated for its poetic lyrics and distinctive sound. They released several acclaimed albums, with some reaching multi-platinum sales. The concerts often featured a deep connection with fans, especially during farewell performances that drew widespread media attention. In addition to music, this individual vented personal experiences through solo projects and was involved in acting, appearing in various film and television roles. Advocacy for Indigenous rights and cancer awareness were also part of this individual’s legacy.

Continue Reading

Ricardo Vidal

Filipino cardinal and church leader
Born
February 6th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 86 years old

Became a prominent figure within the Roman Catholic Church, serving as the Archbishop of Cebu from 1981 to 2011. Played a significant role in the Second Philippine Revolution in 1986, supporting the People Power movement. Contributed to various ecclesiastical roles including participation in multiple synods and the 1994 papal conclave. Was elevated to the College of Cardinals in 1985, participating in several global church issues and promoting religious dialogue.

Continue Reading

Allan H. Meltzer

American economist and academic author
Born
February 6th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 89 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of economics through numerous works and theories. Served as a professor of economics at Carnegie Mellon University. Played a pivotal role in the development of monetarism and was a member of the Council of Economic Advisers. Authored the comprehensive history of the Federal Reserve, detailing its evolution and impact on the economy. Participated in various national and international economic policy discussions.

Continue Reading