What Happened This Year 2019

People Who Died in 2019

Emanuel Ungaro

Fashion designer and founder of a brand
Born
February 13th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent fashion designer entered the industry in the 1960s, establishing a brand that showcased vibrant prints and bold colors. The first collection debuted in 1965, acclaimed for its sophisticated styles that blended traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. Held a reputation for innovative designs that often included elements of sensuality and femininity. Contributed significantly to the Paris fashion scene and worked alongside other notable designers, enhancing his reputation within haute couture.

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Hayden Fry

American football coach and player
Born
February 28th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 90 years old

Played as a college football quarterback before transitioning to coaching. Served as the head coach at North Texas State University, where a successful tenure established a strong program. Later became the head coach at the University of Iowa, leading the team to numerous bowl games and helping to elevate the program's national profile. Introduced innovative offensive strategies that influenced college football coaching practices. Inducted into various halls of fame for contributions to the sport.

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Jim Bouton

Baseball pitcher and author of Ball Four
Born
March 8th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 80 years old

A professional baseball pitcher and author, this individual played primarily for the New York Yankees and is recognized for contributions both on and off the field. Active in Major League Baseball from 1962 to 1978, notable achievements include winning a World Series championship with the Yankees in 1962. The memoir 'Ball Four,' published in 1970, provided an unprecedented look into the lives of baseball players and was widely influential in sports journalism. After retiring from baseball, pursued a career in television and radio broadcasting, also contributing writings to various publications. Continued involvement in baseball included managing in minor leagues and coaching.

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Alberto Cortez

Singer-songwriter known for 'Historia de un Amor'
Born
March 11th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1940, this Argentinian-Spanish singer-songwriter built a successful career in music, particularly in Latin American genres. Cortez began his career in Argentina before relocating to Spain, where he gained broader recognition. He wrote many popular songs, blending poetic lyrics with melodic compositions. Among his most celebrated works is 'Historia de un Amor,' which became a classic in the Latin American repertoire. Throughout the career, numerous albums were released, showcasing a range of themes and styles. The artist's unique voice and songwriting skills earned a dedicated following across Spanish-speaking countries.

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D. C. Fontana

Screenwriter of Star Trek series
Born
March 25th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent screenwriter and producer contributed significantly to the Star Trek franchise, particularly during its early years. Worked on the original Star Trek series, helping to shape its narrative and themes. Later involved in various Star Trek spin-offs and adaptations, solidifying a reputation in science fiction television. Also wrote for other series and films, showcasing versatility across different genres.

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Lee Mendelson

Television producer of 'Peanuts' specials
Born
March 24th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 86 years old

A television producer focused on animated specials, prominently associated with the 'Peanuts' franchise. Developed numerous beloved animated adaptations of Charles M. Schulz's comic strip. Collaborated with animator Bill Melendez, producing iconic holiday specials that became annual traditions. Contributed to the production of the Emmy-nominated television documentary 'A Charlie Brown Christmas', which debuted in 1965, and helped solidify the franchise's popularity. Established a production company to continue the legacy of 'Peanuts' through various media.

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Ernest Hollings

American politician and governor
Born
January 1st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 97 years old

Served as the 106th Governor of South Carolina from 1959 to 1963. Played a significant role in the establishment of the South Carolina Coastal Zone Management Act and contributed to the creation of the state's first comprehensive urban renewal legislation. Represented South Carolina in the United States Senate from 1966 to 2003, where participation in various committees shaped policies in areas such as education, transportation, and the environment. Engaged in efforts to advance economic development and education in South Carolina throughout a long political career.

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Sadako Ogata

UN High Commissioner for Refugees
Born
September 16th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 92 years old

An academic and diplomat, served as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees from 1990 to 2001. Focused on improving the lives of refugees and displaced persons. Played a key role in addressing humanitarian crises in various regions, including the Balkans and the Great Lakes of Africa. Promoted international cooperation and the protection of human rights throughout tenure.

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Edith González

Mexican actress in telenovelas
Born
December 10th, 1964 60 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent figure in the world of telenovelas, the career spanned several decades, beginning in childhood. Gained recognition for roles in productions such as 'Doña Bárbara' and 'María la del Barrio'. Frequently collaborated with Televisa, which helped define a significant part of the genre. In addition to acting, also participated in theater and film, showcasing versatility in her craft. Throughout her career, received multiple awards for performances, including TVyNovelas Awards.

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