What Happened This Year 1962

Born in 1962

John T. Riedl

Computer Scientist and Academic
Born
1962 64 years ago
Died
July 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 51 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of computer science and human-computer interaction. Riedl held a faculty position at the University of Minnesota and conducted extensive research on collaborative filtering and recommender systems. His work laid the foundation for many algorithms used in modern online recommendation services and e-commerce. Published numerous papers throughout his career, advancing the understanding of user preferences and social information filtering. Participated in various academic conferences and shared insights on the future of technology in education and digital media.

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Darrel Akerfelds

Baseball player and coach for Mariners
Born
1962 64 years ago
Died
June 24th, 2012 13 years ago — 50 years old

Played professional baseball as a pitcher in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Seattle Mariners from 1980 to 1982. Transitioned into coaching and served as a pitching coach for various minor league teams and organizations. Contributed to the development of numerous players throughout a coaching career spanning several decades. Worked primarily with young pitchers, focusing on skill development and strategy in the game.

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Nadarajah Raviraj

Sri Lankan lawyer and politician
Born
1962 64 years ago
Died
November 10th, 2006 19 years ago — 44 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician, he served as a member of parliament in Sri Lanka. Involved in regional politics, he represented the Jaffna District and was a vocal advocate for the rights of Tamils in the country. He worked to address issues faced by the Tamil community during a time of civil unrest. His tenure in parliament was marked by efforts to negotiate peace during the Sri Lankan Civil War.

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Csaba Kesjár

Hungarian race car driver, Le Mans participant
Born
1962 64 years ago
Died
June 24th, 1988 37 years ago — 26 years old

A prominent race car driver from Hungary, participated in various racing competitions, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Competed in several disciplines within motorsport, showcasing skills in endurance racing. Kesjár contributed to the development of motorsport in Hungary during the late 20th century. His career included notable achievements in both national and international races, making a mark in the racing community.

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Hillel Slovak

Guitarist for Red Hot Chili Peppers
Born
1962 64 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1988 37 years ago — 26 years old

Born in Israel and later moving to the United States, contributed to the establishment of the funk rock genre. Played guitar for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, becoming an integral part of their sound during the 1980s. His style influenced the band's early work, blending rock, punk, and funk elements. Released two albums with the band, 'The Red Hot Chili Peppers' (1984) and 'Freaky Styley' (1985). Passed away in 1988, leaving a legacy in music and influencing future generations of guitarists.

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Terence Hildner

American General in the military
Born
1962 64 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2012 14 years ago — 50 years old

Served in the United States Army, achieving the rank of General. Participated in key military operations and held various leadership positions throughout a career spanning several decades. Oversaw military planning and training, contributing to the readiness of U.S. forces. Engaged in strategic decision-making that impacted military policies and operations.

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Jhon Jairo Velásquez

Colombian drug dealer and hitman
Born
1962 64 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2020 6 years ago — 58 years old

Involved in organized crime, played a significant role as a hitman for the Medellín Cartel. Gained notoriety during the 1980s and 1990s while working under Pablo Escobar. Captured multiple times and served prison sentences for crimes, including murder and drug trafficking. Transitioned to a media presence after release, engaging with audiences through social media and video content, discussing criminal life and history of the cartel.

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Phil Katz

Computer programmer, co-created ZIP format
Born
1962 64 years ago
Died
April 14th, 2000 25 years ago — 38 years old

A computer programmer contributed to file compression technology by developing the ZIP file format. Established a software company that marketed the format under the name PKWARE. The format became widely adopted for its efficiency and ease of use, facilitating file transfers and storage. Developed other compression tools, enhancing the software's utility and compatibility with various platforms. His innovations played a significant role in the evolution of data compression.

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Surjit Bindrakhia

Indian singer and Bhangra artist
Born
1962 64 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2003 22 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent figure in Punjabi music, gained recognition for an energetic and unique singing style. Achievements include numerous hit songs that popularized Bhangra music across India and the Punjabi diaspora. Collaborated with various artists and contributed to the genre's evolution in the 1990s and early 2000s. Released several albums and singles that are still celebrated within Punjabi culture. Continued to influence later generations of Punjabi singers.

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