What Happened This Year 2002

People Who Died in 2002

Sally Hoyt Spofford

Ornithologist and bird conservationist
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2002 22 years ago — 88 years old

Significant contributions to ornithology included extensive research on bird migration patterns and avian behavior. Authored and co-authored numerous articles and publications in scientific journals. Active in bird conservation initiatives throughout her career. Held a position in the Audubon Society, promoting bird protection and education.

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Tom Dowd

Record producer and engineer known for The Allman Brothers Band
Born
October 20th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
October 27th, 2002 22 years ago — 77 years old

Born in New York City, contributed significantly to the music industry as a record producer and engineer. Involved in the production of numerous iconic albums across various genres. Played a pivotal role in engineering projects for artists such as Eric Clapton and The Allman Brothers Band, particularly noted for the album 'At Fillmore East'. Instrumental in the technical side of recording, bringing innovative techniques to the studio environment. Also recognized for contributions to the development of multi-track recording technology, which greatly influenced the way music was produced.

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Margaret Booth

Film editor and producer of classic films
Born
January 16th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
October 28th, 2002 22 years ago — 104 years old

Born in 1898, a pioneering film editor and producer in the American film industry. Worked extensively with MGM and had a significant role in shaping the editing style of numerous classic films. Contributed to editing iconic movies such as 'The Wizard of Oz', 'Gone with the Wind', and 'The Good Earth'. Served as head of the editing department at MGM for many years, influencing the careers of many other editors and filmmakers. Actively worked in the industry for several decades, celebrated for craftsmanship and dedication to the art of film editing.

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Erling Persson

H&M founder and retail pioneer
Born
January 21st, 1917 108 years ago
Died
October 28th, 2002 22 years ago — 85 years old

Founded H&M in 1947, which became a global fashion retailer. The first store opened in Västerås, Sweden, and the brand rapidly expanded internationally. Under leadership, H&M introduced affordable fashion to a broad audience, emphasizing sustainability in recent years. Persson's vision established a successful business model in the fast fashion industry.

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Glenn McQueen

Animator and Pixar Studios leader
Born
December 24th, 1960 64 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2002 22 years ago — 41 years old

Contributed significantly to animated films, particularly at Pixar Animation Studios. Served as a supervising animator on notable projects such as Toy Story, A Bug's Life, and Monsters, Inc. Played a critical role in shaping the animation style and storytelling techniques used in these films. Collaborated closely with other animators and directors to elevate the quality of computer-generated animation during the late 20th century. His work helped define the standards and practices of modern animation.

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Juan Antonio Bardem

Spanish director and screenwriter
Born
June 2nd, 1922 102 years ago
Died
October 30th, 2002 22 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent figure in Spanish cinema, this individual contributed significantly as a director and screenwriter. Known for engaging narrative styles and tackling social issues, the career spanned several decades, starting in the 1950s. The most notable works include 'Death of a Cyclist' and 'The Good Woman' which are characterized by their critical perspectives on societal norms. This individual also participated in vital film movements and was involved in the establishment of the Spanish film industry during the mid-20th century.

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Jam Master Jay

DJ and producer of Run-D.M.C.
Born
January 21st, 1965 60 years ago
Died
October 30th, 2002 22 years ago — 37 years old

A prominent DJ, rapper, and producer, contributed significantly to the hip hop genre. Co-founded the influential hip hop group Run-D.M.C., which was pivotal in bringing hip hop into the mainstream music scene. The group incorporated rock elements into their music, most notably with the crossover hit 'Walk This Way' featuring Aerosmith, which helped bridge the gap between hip hop and rock audiences. Played a critical role in shaping the sound and style of the group, utilizing innovative techniques in DJing throughout his career. Continued to work in music production and mentoring up-and-coming artists until his untimely death.

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Raf Vallone

Footballer and actor, notable in Italy
Born
February 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2002 22 years ago — 86 years old

Born in Italy in 1916, a successful footballer played primarily as a forward. Represented several clubs, including Inter Milan and Genoa, achieving recognition in Serie A. Transitioned into acting and appeared in international films, gaining acclaim in the 1951 movie 'Three Coins in the Fountain' and the 1954 classic 'The Cheetah'. Vallone's contributions to both football and cinema established a multifaceted legacy.

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Lionel Poilâne

French banker and businessman
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2002 22 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent banker and successful businessman, he played a crucial role in the development of the banking sector in France. The establishment of a renowned bakery business in Paris showcased a commitment to quality and craftsmanship. His innovative approach helped revive traditional baking techniques, ensuring the production of high-quality bread. His contributions extended beyond banking, impacting culinary arts in the region.

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