LOL.. I'm not sure this fits what you are looking for but I recently watch an anime that was made around 1999 called
Crest of the Stars it was good but it doesnt get sad until the third season..
http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/ency...nime.php?id=14
Crest of the Stars
Banner of the Stars (TV) (sequel)
Banner of the Stars II (TV) (sequel)
Banner of the Stars III (OAV)