What Happened This Year 2002

People Who Died in 2002

John Gotti

American mobster and organized crime leader
Born
October 27th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2002 22 years ago — 61 years old

Gotti rose to prominence as a leading figure in the Gambino crime family in New York City. Gotti gained significant attention in the 1980s due to his flamboyant personality and high-profile criminal activities. He became underboss and later succeeded Paul Castellano as boss of the Gambino family in 1985. Gotti was involved in various criminal enterprises including extortion, loan sharking, and racketeering. His trial in 1992, which ended in conviction, marked a turning point as law enforcement began to effectively target organized crime families. Gotti’s life of crime ended in federal prison where he remained until his death in 2002.

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Bill Blass

Fashion Designer and Founder of Bill Blass Limited
Born
June 22nd, 1922 102 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2002 22 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent American fashion designer, this individual founded Bill Blass Limited, a high-profile fashion house. The designer's work included designing ready-to-wear collections that captured the essence of American style. Renowned for a glamorous aesthetic, the designs frequently appeared in prestigious fashion events and were worn by notable figures in society. The brand became a symbol of elegance and sophistication during the 1970s and 1980s.

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June Jordan

Poet and educator, acclaimed for works
Born
July 9th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
June 14th, 2002 22 years ago — 65 years old

An influential poet and educator, contributed significantly to literature and social justice. Published a wide array of poetry collections, essays, and plays. Established the 'Poetry for the People' program at the University of California, Berkeley, encouraging students to explore and express their voices through poetry. Advocated for issues including gender equality, racial justice, and LGBTQ rights, incorporating personal experiences into creative and academic work.

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Choi Hong Hi

Martial Artist and Founder of Taekwondo
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2002 22 years ago — 84 years old

A South Korean general and martial artist, contributed significantly to the development of Taekwondo. Played a pivotal role in the spread of this martial art internationally, establishing organizations and teaching techniques worldwide. Authored instructional books that helped standardize Taekwondo practices and promote its philosophy. In 1966, co-founded the International Taekwon-Do Federation, leading to a global community of practitioners.

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Fritz Walter

German footballer, 1954 World Cup winner
Born
October 31st, 1920 104 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2002 22 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent German footballer, played as an attacking midfielder and forward. Spent the majority of his career at 1. FC Kaiserslautern, where he achieved significant success. Acted as team captain during the 1954 FIFA World Cup, leading Germany to victory against Hungary in the final, a match famously referred to as the 'Miracle of Bern'. His contributions to the sport extended beyond club football, representing the national team in 61 matches and scoring 33 goals. Remembered for his technical skills and leadership.

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Willie Davenport

American hurdler, Olympic gold medalist
Born
June 8th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2002 22 years ago — 59 years old

Competed in track and field, specializing in the 110-meter hurdles. Achieved notable success during the 1960s and 1970s, representing the United States at multiple international competitions. Won a gold medal at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. Participated in the Olympic Games in 1964, 1968, and 1972, securing a bronze medal in the 1972 Munich Olympics. His contributions to the sport include setting personal records and competing at national levels, influencing future generations of hurdlers.

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Tinus Osendarp

Dutch sprinter and police officer
Born
May 21st, 1916 108 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2002 22 years ago — 86 years old

A sprinting athlete represented the Netherlands in track and field events. Competed in the 1936 Summer Olympics held in Berlin, participating in the 100 meters and 4x100 meters relay. Achieved recognition in national competitions and contributed to law enforcement as a police officer after retiring from athletics, balancing sports and public service.

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Erwin Chargaff

Biochemist and DNA structure contributor
Born
August 11th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2002 22 years ago — 96 years old

Born in Austria and later becoming an American citizen, Chargaff made significant contributions to biochemistry and molecular biology. He is best recognized for formulating Chargaff's rules, which describe the base pairing in DNA. His research laid critical groundwork for understanding the structure of DNA, influencing later discoveries in genetics. Chargaff was a professor at Columbia University, where he educated future scientists.

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Timothy Findley

Canadian author and playwright
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
June 21st, 2002 22 years ago — 72 years old

An influential Canadian author and playwright, made significant contributions to literature. Wrote notable novels such as 'The Wars,' which explores the psychological effects of World War I on soldiers. Also authored 'Not Wanted on the Voyage,' a retelling of the Noah's Ark story from an unconventional perspective. His works often address themes of war, identity, and the human condition. Received several prestigious awards throughout his career, including the Governor General's Award for Fiction.

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