What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Jimmy Piersall

Baseball player and sportscaster, starred in baseball.
Born
November 14th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 88 years old

Played Major League Baseball predominantly with the Boston Red Sox and the New York Mets. Made a significant mark in baseball with an impressive defensive skill set and was known for his vibrant personality on and off the field. Transitioned to a career in broadcasting after retiring from playing, providing color commentary for various networks. Authored an autobiography detailing personal struggles and triumphs in life and baseball.

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Glenne Headly

American actress in film and television
Born
March 13th, 1955 71 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1955, an American actress gained recognition for roles in stage, film, and television. Appeared in the film 'Dirty Rotten Scoundrels' alongside Steve Martin and Michael Caine, showcasing skill in comedy. Starred in 'Mr. Holland's Opus' as the wife of Richard Dreyfuss's character, contributing to the film's emotional depth. Worked extensively in television, including roles in series such as 'The Night Of' and 'ER', demonstrating versatility across genres. Received accolades for stage performances, including an Emmy Award nomination for a television movie.

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Johan Steyn

South African-English lawyer and judge
Born
August 15th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 85 years old

Baron Steyn served as a distinguished judge in the House of Lords, contributing to several pivotal legal decisions. Additionally, served as a judge in the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of South Africa. His legal career began in South Africa, where developed a reputation for legal expertise and integrity. Later moved to the United Kingdom, where continued to influence the law through notable rulings. Served on numerous judicial committees and contributed to legal education.

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František Rajtoral

Czech footballer and defender
Born
March 12th, 1986 40 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 31 years old

Born in 1986, a prominent Czech footballer played primarily as a right-back. Started professional career with FC Zlín, then joined Slovan Liberec, contributing to their success in the Czech First League. Later, moved to the Polish league, playing for Górnik Zabrze. In 2015, transferred to Viktoria Plzeň, where played a crucial role in the team’s victories, including the Czech Cup and the Czech Supercup. Represented the Czech Republic at various youth levels, culminating in senior international appearances.

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Hans Kraay Sr.

Footballer and manager with FC Utrecht
Born
October 14th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 81 years old

A former footballer and manager, achieved prominence in the Netherlands. Played as a defender primarily for FC Utrecht, contributing to the team's successes during the 1950s and 1960s. Transitioned into a managerial role, guiding various clubs throughout his career. Established a reputation both on and off the pitch, leading teams with strategic insight and experience.

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Ara Parseghian

American football coach, Notre Dame
Born
May 21st, 1923 103 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 94 years old

Played college football at Miami University and served as a head coach for the United States Naval Academy and Northwestern University before leading Notre Dame. Coached Notre Dame from 1964 to 1974, achieving significant success during this period, including two national championships. Developed a strong football program and emphasized a disciplined approach to the game, earning a reputation as a capable strategist and leader in college football.

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Connie Hawkins

Basketball player and NBA star
Born
July 17th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 75 years old

Played professional basketball from the 1960s to the 1970s. Achieved prominence as a forward in the American Basketball Association (ABA) and National Basketball Association (NBA). Won the NBA Most Valuable Player Award in 1970. Contributed to the success of the Phoenix Suns, leading the team to the NBA Finals in 1976. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1992.

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Stephen Paddock

Mass murderer in Las Vegas shooting
Born
April 9th, 1953 73 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1953, engaged in various occupations and activities throughout life. Became widely recognized for involvement in the 2017 Las Vegas shooting, which resulted in the deaths of 58 individuals and injuries to hundreds more. The attack occurred during a music festival, making it one of the deadliest mass shootings in U.S. history. Investigations revealed a premeditated plan, and law enforcement found a stockpile of firearms in the perpetrator's hotel room.

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Frank Deford

Sports journalist and author
Born
December 16th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent sports journalist and author, contributed significantly to the field through writing for Sports Illustrated and NPR. Authored several books, including 'Nobody's Perfect' and 'The Courtship of Bette Davis'. Served as a commentator on various platforms, blending sports with broader cultural issues.

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