October 02

Born in 1881, Orthwein emerged as a talented aquatic athlete who represented the United States in various swimming and water polo competitions. He competed in the 1904 Summer Olympics, where he showcased his skills in backstroke and water polo. Orthwein helped elevate water polo's profile in America through his dedication to the sport and his teamwork. Beyond the Olympics, he participated in national and club-level tournaments, earning accolades that reflected his commitment. Orthwein's athletic career took place during a formative era for U.S. aquatic sports, and his contributions inspired future generations. He remained involved in sports after retiring from competition, supporting aquatic programs until his death in 1955.

Born in Finland in 1897, Nurmi earned the nickname 'the Flying Finn' for his exceptional speed and endurance. He won nine Olympic gold medals across the 1920, 1924, and 1928 Games, setting multiple world records. Nurmi pioneered interval training techniques that transformed modern athletics. His rivalry with other runners of his era captivated global audiences and elevated track and field's popularity. After retiring from competition, Nurmi coached athletes and promoted sports in Finland. He was celebrated as a national hero and remains one of the most acclaimed runners in history. Nurmi passed away in 1973, leaving a legacy of athletic excellence.

Tex Coulter was born in 1924 in McKinney, Texas, and starred as a standout lineman for the Army Black Knights football team, earning All-American honors in the late 1940s. He was selected in the first round of the 1949 NFL Draft and went on to play professionally for the New York Yanks and the Dallas Texans. Known for his strength and versatility, Coulter excelled at both guard and tackle positions. After his NFL career, he contributed to football as a coach and mentor at the collegiate and high school levels. Coulter's dedication to the sport left a lasting impression on teammates and young players. He passed away on October 2, 2007.

Born in 1955, Robert Flower was one of the most talented and respected players in the Australian Football League during the 1970s and 1980s. Known for his elegant style, precise kicking, and exceptional endurance, he played 272 games for Melbourne and kicked 272 goals. Flower served as vice-captain and later captain of the club, earning All-Australian honors three times and winning multiple best-and-fairest awards. His versatility allowed him to excel both as a midfielder and forward, making him a fan favorite. After retiring in 1987, he remained involved in football through coaching and commentary. Flower was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding career. He passed away in 2014, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.

Born in 1923, Johnny Paton began his professional career with Celtic before moving to Chelsea, where he made over 100 appearances as a creative inside forward. His skill, vision, and sportsmanship earned him respect on and off the pitch. After retiring as a player, Paton transitioned to coaching and scouting, playing a key role in identifying and nurturing emerging talents in Scottish and English football. He held coaching positions at several clubs and served as a youth team manager, influencing a generation of players with his tactical acumen and leadership. Paton also wrote columns and insights on football strategy for local newspapers. He remained a beloved figure in football circles until his death in 2015. His contributions to the sport continue to be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.

Jack Biondolillo was an American ten-pin bowler and one of the founding stars of the PBA Tour. In 1967, he became the first bowler to roll a 7–10 split on live national television during the Firestone Tournament of Champions, a moment that remains iconic in bowling history. He won three PBA Tour titles and was known for his precise technique and calm demeanor under pressure. Biondolillo competed at the highest level throughout the 1960s and inspired a generation of bowlers with his televised performances. He was later inducted into the PBA Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the sport. Biondolillo passed away in 2021 at the age of 80, leaving a legacy of memorable achievements on the lanes.

Francis Lee was an English professional footballer renowned for his goal-scoring prowess as a striker. Born in Westhoughton, Lancashire, he began his career with Bolton Wanderers before becoming a club legend at Manchester City from 1967 to 1974. Lee scored 148 goals in 285 appearances for City, helping the team win the First Division title, the FA Cup, and the League Cup. He earned 27 caps for England, scoring 10 goals and representing his country at the 1970 FIFA World Cup. After retiring from playing, Lee served as a football club administrator and briefly entered politics with the Ecology Party. He died in 2023 at the age of 79, celebrated for his impact both on and off the pitch.

Susie Maxwell Berning was an American professional golfer who made her mark on the LPGA Tour in the 1960s and 1970s. She won four major titles: the U.S. Women's Open in 1962, 1963, and 1964, and the Titleholders Championship in 1962. Berning claimed 22 career victories on the LPGA Tour and was named Rookie of the Year in 1962. Known for her consistent accuracy and calm demeanor, she competed at the top level for over two decades. Berning was inducted into multiple golf halls of fame in recognition of her achievements and contributions to women's golf. She passed away in 2024 at the age of 83, leaving a legacy of excellence in the sport.