Former US Olympic Swimmer Dies

Roy Saari, a Gold and Silver medalist in the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games, died suddenly on December 30 of congestive heart failure, according to the Los Angeles Times. Saari, the son of a southern California high school swimming and water polo coach, earned the Gold Medal as part of the US champion 800m relay team. He earned the Silver Medal in the 400 individual relay.

Saari, who become an attorney, real estate agent, and planning commissioner for his hometown of Mammoth Lake, California, was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1976. He is particularly noted for his unique kick and for being the first man to break the 17 minute barrier in the 1500m freestyle event. He is survived by his wife, two children, and several grandchildren.