What Happened This Year 2002

People Who Died in 2002

Edvaldo Alves de Santa Rosa

Brazilian footballer, World Cup champion
Born
March 26th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent figure in Brazilian football, achieved significant success during a prolific career as a forward. Played for clubs including Palmeiras and the Brazilian national team. Contributed to Brazil's victory in the 1958 FIFA World Cup, showcasing exceptional skills and contributing to Brazil's reputation as a football powerhouse. Played in the top tier of Brazilian football and earned a place among the greats of the game during the era.

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Yelena Gorchakova

Javelin thrower and Olympic champion
Born
May 17th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 69 years old

Competed in javelin throw representing the Soviet Union. Claimed a gold medal at the 1960 Rome Olympics. Achieved significant national records during the athletic career, earning recognition within the sport. Participated in various international competitions, consistently showcasing proficiency in javelin technique and distance.

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John Buscema

Comic book illustrator and artist
Born
December 11th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 75 years old

An American illustrator and comic book artist gained recognition for contributions to Marvel Comics. Worked primarily in the 1960s and 1970s, producing iconic artwork for characters such as Thor, The Avengers, and Spider-Man. Collaborated with key writers like Stan Lee and Roy Thomas, helping define the visual style of superhero comics during this era. Alongside comic book work, produced illustrations for various magazines and instructional art books. Actively influenced generations of artists through teaching and mentorship in the comic art community.

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William Tutte

British codebreaker and mathematician
Born
May 14th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 88 years old

Tutte contributed significantly to the field of mathematics and codebreaking during World War II. He was instrumental in deciphering the Lorenz cipher, used by the German military. This achievement greatly aided the Allied forces' efforts during the war. After the war, Tutte's work in graph theory led to pioneering advancements in combinatorial optimization and the theory of matroid. His research impacted various scientific and engineering fields, enhancing problem-solving methods.

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Basappa Danappa Jatti

Indian politician and Vice President
Born
September 10th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 90 years old

Served as the 5th Vice President of India from 1970 to 1974. Practiced law before entering politics and held various significant positions within the legislative framework of the country. Involved in multiple committees and was a prominent figure in Indian politics during the 20th century. Contributed to the development of several educational and health initiatives in India.

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Bobo Olson

Boxer and middleweight champion
Born
July 11th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 74 years old

Emerged as a prominent professional boxer during the 1950s, competing in the middleweight division. Achieved significant success, securing the World Middleweight Championship title in 1953. Engaged in several high-profile matches, including fights against notable opponents. Transitioned to retirement in the early 1960s and subsequently contributed to the sport through mentorship and training of younger fighters.

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Etta Zuber Falconer

Mathematician and educator focused on STEM
Born
November 21st, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 69 years old

Contributed to mathematics education, particularly for underrepresented groups. Worked at Spelman College, where influenced many students through innovative teaching methods. Engaged in curriculum development that emphasized the importance of mathematics in everyday life and various professions. Actively participated in organizations aimed at improving math education for minority students.

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Peter Gzowski

Canadian journalist and broadcaster
Born
July 13th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 68 years old

Worked as a journalist and broadcaster in Canada, contributing significantly to the field of media. Served as the host of the popular radio program 'Morningside', which ran for over two decades on the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. Engaged in various written works including 'The Morningside Papers', showcasing interviews and stories from notable figures. In addition to broadcasting, played a role in academic circles as a lecturer and mentor, influencing the next generation of journalists.

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Bob Steele

American radio personality and host
Born
July 13th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent radio personality began a career in broadcasting in the 1930s, gaining popularity through various radio shows. Worked primarily in the Los Angeles area and attracted audiences with a unique style and entertaining content. Served as a host for the program 'The Bob Steele Show', which showcased music and comedy. Retired in the late 1970s after a lengthy career in radio.

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