What Happened This Year 2019

People Who Died in 2019

Mitchell Feigenbaum

Physicist renowned for chaos theory
Born
December 19th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 75 years old

An American physicist and mathematician, significant contributions were made in the field of chaos theory. Feigenbaum defined the mathematical principles underlying the transition to chaos in dynamical systems. His work established the concept of universal ratios in bifurcation diagrams, leading to the characterization of chaotic behavior. The Feigenbaum constants derived from this research have been widely applied in various scientific domains.

Continue Reading

William Milliken

American politician, Michigan governor
Born
March 26th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 97 years old

Served as the 44th Governor of Michigan from 1969 to 1983. A member of the Republican Party, focused on environmental policies and urban development during tenure. Played a significant role in promoting the state's economy and education. Worked to enhance the quality of life in Michigan, emphasizing public transportation and infrastructure improvements. After leaving office, remained involved in various civic and charitable organizations.

Continue Reading

Bonnie Guitar

Singer-songwriter and guitarist, 'Dark Moon'
Born
March 25th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 96 years old

Initially gained prominence as a session guitarist before launching a solo career in the 1950s. Released the hit single 'Dark Moon' in 1956, which topped various charts and received significant airplay. Established a successful career in country and pop music, contributing to the genre's development. Also recognized for her skills as a producer and entrepreneur in the music industry. Founded her own record label to promote emerging artists.

Continue Reading

Martin Böttcher

German composer and conductor
Born
June 17th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1927, a composer and conductor for film and television music emerged as a significant figure in the German music scene. Many scores for Western films became widely recognized, particularly during the 1960s. The composition for the movie series 'Winnetou' gained notable popularity and contributed to the soundscape of German cinema. Böttcher also worked extensively in television, creating memorable themes and background music, connecting audiences to various programs throughout the decades.

Continue Reading

Mel Stottlemyre

Baseball player and pitching coach
Born
November 13th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 78 years old

Played as a right-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1964 to 1974. Spent the majority of playing career with the New York Yankees, earning three All-Star selections. He transitioned into a coaching role after retirement, serving as a pitching coach for various teams, including the New York Yankees, where he contributed to the development of multiple pitchers. His coaching career spanned several decades, influencing the game through mentorship and tactical insights.

Continue Reading

Maurice Ferré

Puerto Rican-American politician, Mayor of Miami
Born
June 23rd, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the 32nd Mayor of Miami from 1973 to 1985. Focused on urban development and community services during tenure. Played a significant role in the city’s growth and modernization efforts. Advocated for minority rights and addressed issues affecting the Puerto Rican community in Miami.

Continue Reading

Roky Erickson

Singer-songwriter and musician
Born
July 15th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 72 years old

Active in the music scene from the 1960s, significant contributions included founding the psychedelic rock band 13th Floor Elevators. Helped define the genre with the hit song "You're Gonna Miss Me." After a period of mental health struggles, continued to create solo work that explored themes of horror and existentialism. Released several albums, including 'The Evil One' and 'True Love Cast Out All Evil,' showcasing a unique blend of rock, punk, and gothic influences. Recognized for blending personal experiences and storytelling in music.

Continue Reading

Harry Hughes

American politician; 57th Governor of Maryland
Born
November 13th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 93 years old

Served as the 57th Governor of Maryland from 1979 to 1987. Prior to his governorship, held various positions in Maryland's political landscape including Maryland House of Delegates and as a State Senator. Advocated for environmental preservation and urban development throughout tenure. After leaving office, remained active in local politics and public service.

Continue Reading

Machiko Kyō

Japanese actress in classic films
Born
March 25th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 95 years old

Active from the 1940s to the 1960s, this actress appeared in numerous influential films and became a symbol of post-war Japanese cinema. Significant roles included performances in 'Rashomon' (1950) and 'Ugetsu' (1953), both directed by Akira Kurosawa and Mizoguchi Kenji, respectively. These films are considered masterpieces and contributed to her recognition in the international film community. She worked extensively in the Toho film studio and became an iconic figure in Japanese film history.

Continue Reading