Monday, August 31, 2009

David Laut - Olympic Medalist

David Laut who won a bronze medal for the USA in the shot put during the 1984 Olympic was shot to death on August 28, 2009 after confronting intruders outside his Oxnard, California home. He was 52.

He won two NCAA titles at UCLA in the shot put. He also won a gold medal at the 1979 Pan American games. He was favored to win a gold medal at the Olympics in Los Angels after throwing 70'10" at the Olympic trials. However, his best throw in the finals was 68'9" which left him with the bronze medal.

In 1985 he was the 7th ranked shot putter in the world, but suffered torn tendons in both of his knees while participating in an agility test for a firefighter's job. He attempted to make the 1988 team, but his effort fell short.

He continued to work out daily. His neighbors were unaware of his past accomplishments as he kept a very low profile in his community.

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Tony Huesman - Transplant Recipient

Tony Huesman, 51, the world's longest surviving heart transplant recipient died on August 12, 2009 in Dayton, Ohio from cancer and diabetes. Ironically, his heart was working fine at the time of his death.

He received his new heart at Stanford University in 1978. In 2000, he became the longest living heart recipient when another patient had to undergo a second transplant.

At the time of his death, his mark of 31 years was recognized as the world's longest according to the United Network for Organ Sharing.

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Ed Reimer- Voice of Allstate

Ed Reimer was an actor best known for his television commercials for Allstate Insurance and his signature line of:"You're in good hands with Allstate". Mr Reimer died at the age of 96 on August 16, 2009 in upstate New York.

He was a game show host in the 1950's & 60's for "Do you trust your wife?" which was later known as "Who do you trust?" and featured Johnny Carson. He was also the announcer for the tv western "Maverick".

He became the spokesperson for Allstate in 1957 and continued until 1979. His line became synonymous with the company.

He was also featured in several movies from the 1950's including "The Loved One".