What Happened This Year 2019

People Who Died in 2019

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Bill Buckner

Baseball player and manager, 1981 NL batting title
Born
December 14th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 70 years old

This individual played Major League Baseball primarily as a first baseman and left fielder. Career spanned from 1969 to 1990, featuring stints with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, Boston Red Sox, and Kansas City Royals. Achieved an impressive batting average of .289 over 19 seasons. Recognized for winning the National League batting title in 1981 while with the Cubs. Concluded playing career with the Red Sox, where a critical error in the 1986 World Series became a defining moment, leading to the team's loss to the New York Mets. Transitioned to coaching and managing in minor league baseball after retirement from playing.

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Jonathan Miller

English actor and director of Beyond the Fringe
Born
July 21st, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 85 years old

An English actor, director, and author, Miller gained prominence through work in theatre and television. He co-founded the influential comedy group Beyond the Fringe in the early 1960s, which played a significant role in the development of British satire. In addition to his theatrical contributions, he directed several acclaimed productions and was involved in television projects, creating impactful works in British comedy and drama. His literary contributions included works on cultural criticism and the arts, reflecting his broad intellectual interests.

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Ken Kercheval

Actor in Dallas and related works
Born
July 15th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 84 years old

An American actor and director, one of the most recognizable roles involved playing Cliff Barnes in the television series 'Dallas', which aired from 1978 to 1991. This character was central to the show's long-running saga of the Ewing family and their oil empire. Kercheval's portrayal resonated with audiences during the series' peak popularity. In addition to television, Kercheval worked in theater and appeared in various films, contributing to different facets of visual storytelling. His career spanned several decades, engaging audiences through various performing arts.

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D. A. Pennebaker

Documentary filmmaker of 'Don't Look Back'
Born
July 15th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 94 years old

An American documentary filmmaker specialized in cinéma vérité. Developed techniques that emphasized real-life events and observed moments. Pioneered the use of lightweight cameras and portable sound equipment, facilitating spontaneous filming. Directed landmark films including 'Don't Look Back,' chronicling Bob Dylan's 1965 tour, and 'Monterey Pop,' capturing the 1967 music festival. Achieved significant recognition for contributions to documentary filmmaking.

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