What Happened This Year 2002

People Who Died in 2002

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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Aileen Wuornos

Serial killer with notorious crimes
Born
February 29th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 46 years old

Aileen Wuornos was an American female serial killer who committed her crimes in Florida during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Convicted of murdering seven men, Wuornos claimed that the men had either assaulted her or attempted to assault her while she was working as a sex worker. Her trial garnered significant media attention, eventually leading to her being sentenced to death. The legal proceedings and her life story sparked discussions on issues such as mental health, sexism, and the justice system. In 2002, Wuornos was executed by lethal injection.

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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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Roden Cutler

Australian politician and Governor
Born
May 24th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1916, served as a lieutenant during World War II. Held the position of the 32nd Governor of New South Wales from 1966 to 1977, contributing to various social and educational initiatives. Engaged in public service and politics following military service, advocating for veterans' issues and community development. Cutler's tenure as governor was marked by commitment to civic duty and community support.

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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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C. Farris Bryant

American soldier and politician, Governor
Born
July 26th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the 34th Governor of Florida from 1961 to 1965. Bryant participated in World War II as a soldier and later earned a law degree. After the war, entered politics and became the first Florida governor to serve consecutive terms since Reconstruction. Advocated for educational reform and the expansion of infrastructure during his tenure. His administration focused on economic development and urban renewal in Florida.

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