Paul Winchell Voiced Tigger… and also Patented the First Artificial Heart

Although you might not be able to recall Paul Winchell's name off the top of your head, you have probably heard his voice. Winchell was the voice actor who gave Tigger and Gargamel on the Smurfs their distinct personalities. Additionally, he was a skilled ventriloquist who even received a Grammy for his voice work.

Winchell had a true thing for science and medicine when he wasn't bringing dolls and cartoons to life. This is not to claim that he was a voice actor who decided to become a doctor; rather, he was a voice actor with a strong interest in medical science but no official training. Nevertheless, he still found the time to construct the mechanical heart.

He was motivated to do more by his connection with Dr. Henry Heimlich, the creator of the Heimlich Maneuver. Winchell had the concept for a device that could keep blood moving after watching his friend conduct surgery. During the design phase, Heimlich provided guidance, and Winchell patented the invention in 1963.

Born: Paul Wilchinsky December 21, 1922New York City, U.S.
Died: June 24, 2005 (aged 82)Moorpark, California, U.S.