What Happened This Year 2002

People Who Died in 2002

Ruth Svedberg

Swedish discus thrower and triathlete
Born
April 14th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
2002 24 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.

Continue Reading

Steve Gromek

Baseball player and All-Star pitcher
Born
January 15th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
2002 24 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.

Continue Reading

Carmen Silvera

Canadian-English actress in sitcoms
Born
June 2nd, 1922 104 years ago
Died
2002 24 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.

Continue Reading

Angelo Buono

Serial killer and rapist
Born
October 5th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2002 24 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.

Continue Reading

Rudolf Hell

Engineer, inventor of the Hellschreiber
Born
December 19th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 101 years old

An engineer, developed the Hellschreiber, a device used for digital communication in the early 20th century. This device transmitted typed messages using a simple mechanism resembling a typewriter, significantly influencing radio communications. The Hellschreiber gained popularity during World War II for its ability to send messages in poor conditions, making it a valuable tool for military and amateur radio operators. Hell's work contributed to advancements in teleprinter technology and digital communication.

Continue Reading

Eppie Lederer

Journalist and radio host, 'Dear Abby'
Born
July 4th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent journalist and radio host, provided advice through the syndicated column 'Dear Abby' starting in 1956. The column addressed various social issues and personal dilemmas, gaining widespread readership. She began her career in journalism in the 1940s and became a media personality by combining humor with practical advice. In addition to 'Dear Abby', worked as a writer for several magazines and contributed to radio shows, becoming a trusted voice for many who sought guidance. The writing style was characterized by straightforward, compassionate responses to readers' concerns.

Continue Reading

John Nathan-Turner

Television producer for Doctor Who
Born
August 12th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2002 24 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.

Continue Reading

Hans Janmaat

Dutch politician and businessman
Born
November 3rd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 68 years old

A businessman and educator often involved in politics, contributed to the political landscape in the Netherlands. Founded the political party Centrum Democraten in 1984, which focused on issues such as immigration and Dutch nationalism. Served as a member of the Dutch House of Representatives from 1986 until 1994, advocating for his party's agenda in immigration and social policies. Engaged in various business ventures while also participating in public life and offering insights on economic and political matters.

Continue Reading

C. Farris Bryant

American soldier and politician, Governor
Born
July 26th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
2002 24 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.

Continue Reading