What Happened This Year 2002

People Who Died in 2002

Buck Baker

Race car driver and two-time Daytona 500 winner
Born
March 4th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 83 years old

A successful race car driver participated in NASCAR events during the 1950s and 1960s. Achieved recognition as a two-time winner of the Daytona 500 in 1953 and 1957. Competed in over 400 NASCAR races throughout a career spanning several decades. Became one of the earliest drivers to gain popularity in the sport.

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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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Gray Morrow

Comic Book Artist, illustrator, Rampaging Hulk
Born
March 7th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 68 years old

An influential illustrator and comic book artist, recognized for contributions to the comic industry through both artwork and storytelling. Worked with major publishers such as Marvel and DC Comics. Developed a distinctive style that combined realism with dynamic action. Created iconic characters and series that resonate with fans of the genre. His work appeared in various notable comics, including the 'Rampaging Hulk' and 'Batman' series.

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Jesse Brown

Secretary of Veterans Affairs
Born
March 27th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 58 years old

Served as the second United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs from 1993 to 1997. Brown played a crucial role in the implementation of the Veterans Health Care Eligibility Reform Act of 1996, which improved health care access for veterans. Prior to this, he had a distinguished career in the United States Marine Corps, achieving the rank of Colonel. He also served in various capacities related to veterans’ issues and was actively involved in military and governmental roles throughout his career.

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Ruth Svedberg

Swedish discus thrower and triathlete
Born
April 14th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 99 years old

Competed in discus throw and triathlon, participating in the 1924 Summer Olympics. Achieved national records in discus throw and earned multiple championships in Sweden. Focused on both athletics and triathlon throughout career, representing Sweden in various international competitions.

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Steve Gromek

Baseball player and All-Star pitcher
Born
January 15th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 82 years old

An American baseball player played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Teams included the Cleveland Indians and Detroit Tigers. Best seasons occurred during the 1950s, contributing significantly as a starter. Accomplished in various games, showcased skills in both wins and losses, earning recognition as an All-Star in 1954.

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Carmen Silvera

Canadian-English actress in sitcoms
Born
June 2nd, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1922, this actress gained recognition primarily for roles in television comedies. Achieved prominence with a memorable performance in the long-running British sitcom 'Love Thy Neighbour,' playing the role of Eva. Her career included appearances in other British television shows, contributing to the landscape of 1970s and 1980s television.

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Angelo Buono

Serial killer and rapist
Born
October 5th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1934, engaged in a series of heinous crimes in the Los Angeles area during the 1970s. Worked alongside a partner to abduct, sexually assault, and murder multiple young women. The crimes generated significant media attention and contributed to widespread fear in the community. Convicted in 1983, received multiple life sentences without the possibility of parole.

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John Nathan-Turner

Television producer for Doctor Who
Born
August 12th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 55 years old

An English author and television producer, significant contributions were made to the long-running series Doctor Who. Serving as producer from 1980 to 1989, introduced new elements to the series, refreshing its narrative style and character development. Oversaw the transition of the show to a more modern format and expanded its reach to new audiences. Worked on various other television projects and has written books on media and television production.

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