What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Geoffrey Bayldon

English actor in 'Catweazle'
Born
January 7th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 93 years old

An English actor, significant contributions to television and film occurred throughout a prolific career. Prominent roles included the character Catweazle in the children's television series 'Catweazle,' which aired from 1970 to 1971. This performance captured the charm of the titular character, a wizard from the Middle Ages who finds himself in the modern world. Other noteworthy appearances included roles in 'The Black Adder' and 'The Phantom of the Opera.' In addition to television, contributions to theatre and film enriched the performing arts landscape.

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Mark White

43rd Governor of Texas
Born
March 17th, 1940 86 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 77 years old

Served as the 43rd Governor of Texas from 1983 to 1987. Focused on education reform, increasing funding for public schools, and introduced the Texas Education Agency's accountability system. Prior to governorship, held various positions including Attorney General of Texas. Promoted the Texas minimum wage increase and worked on health care initiatives during tenure. After leaving office, continued involvement in legal and educational sectors.

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Donald Sarason

Mathematician and function theorist
Born
January 26th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 84 years old

Significant contributions to the field of mathematics, particularly in the area of function theory. Specializes in complex analysis and operator theory. Held a professorship at the University of Maryland. Authored influential papers and books that advanced the understanding of the boundary behavior of holomorphic functions. Engaged in academic discourse and mentoring, shaping future mathematicians through education.

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Buchi Emecheta

Nigerian author of 'The Joys of Womanhood'
Born
July 21st, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 73 years old

An author and academic focused on themes of feminism, culture, and the immigrant experience. Wrote several novels that depict the struggles and resilience of women in Nigerian society. The work 'The Joys of Womanhood' is one of the most recognized, highlighting the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal environment. Contributed to discussions on gender, identity, and post-colonialism through literature, bringing attention to the complexities of Nigerian life and diaspora experiences.

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Louis Frémaux

Conductor known for orchestral performances
Born
August 13th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 96 years old

Frémaux served as the chief conductor for several prestigious orchestras throughout his career. He was the principal conductor of the Orchestre National de France and held conducting positions with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Frémaux conducted in various international venues, showcasing a repertoire that included both classical and contemporary music. His leadership extended to significant festivals and he frequently collaborated with renowned soloists throughout his lifetime.

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John Hillerman

American actor of Magnum P.I.
Born
December 20th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 85 years old

This actor gained recognition for a prolific career in television and film. Most notably, played the role of Jonathan Quayle Higgins III in the television series 'Magnum P.I.' which aired from 1980 to 1988. The portrayal earned an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series. Appeared in various guest roles across television, showcasing a distinctive voice and strong character presence. Contributed to theater productions prior to achieving acclaim on screen.

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Samuel Ogbemudia

Nigerian army officer and politician
Born
September 17th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 85 years old

An army officer and politician, contributions include service in the Nigerian Civil War and holding various governmental positions. Oversaw key political developments in Nigeria during the 1960s and 1970s, serving as the military governor of the Mid-West Region. Promoted infrastructure and social reforms in the region. Involved in shaping military and civil governance in Nigeria during a pivotal era.

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Keith Sutton

English bishop and church leader
Born
June 23rd, 1934 92 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 83 years old

Ordained as a priest in the Church of England, served in various roles including Dean of Canterbury. Contributed to theological discussions and ecumenical initiatives. Played a significant role in the administration and pastoral care within the Diocese of Bath and Wells and participated actively in church governance.

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Michael Bond

Author of Paddington Bear series
Born
January 13th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 91 years old

An English author wrote the beloved children's book series featuring Paddington Bear, a character who arrived from Peru. The first book, published in 1958, introduced readers to Paddington's adventures in London. Bond created the character inspired by a toy bear purchased for his own children. Over the years, numerous Paddington books were published, capturing the charm and innocence of childhood. The series has been adapted into television shows and films, bringing the character to a wider audience. Bond's works have remained popular across generations, enchanting millions of children and parents alike.

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