What Happened This Year 2003

People Who Died in 2003

Selahattin Ülkümen

Turkish diplomat during World War II
Born
January 14th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
2003 23 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a Turkish diplomat in France during World War II. Provided extensive assistance to Jewish refugees escaping the Holocaust, often issuing visas that allowed them to enter Turkey. Demonstrated significant courage in the face of pressure from Nazi authorities to turn over refugees. After the war, continued work in foreign service and made contributions to diplomatic relations.

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Eulalio González

Singer-songwriter and film director
Born
December 16th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2003 23 years ago — 82 years old

Born in Mexico in 1921, a prominent figure in music and film. Gained fame as a singer-songwriter with a focus on traditional Mexican genres. Additionally, directed several films, contributing to the Mexican cinematic landscape. Worked as a producer and screenwriter, engaging in various creative projects that highlighted cultural stories and realities.

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Willem Slijkhuis

Dutch middle-distance runner, Olympian
Born
January 13th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
2003 23 years ago — 80 years old

Competed in middle-distance running events during the mid-20th century. Participated in the 1948 London Olympics, finishing 8th in the 1500 meters. Slijkhuis was a national champion in the Netherlands and specialized in the 1500 meters and mile events throughout his career. His athletic achievements contributed to the prominence of Dutch middle-distance running during that era.

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Chakravarthi V. Narasimhan

Civil Service Officer, UN Under Secretary-General
Born
May 21st, 1915 111 years ago
Died
2003 23 years ago — 88 years old

Civil Service Officer served in the Indian government and held significant positions within the United Nations. Played a crucial role in the development of international relations, particularly in the realm of global diplomacy and peacekeeping efforts. Focused on issues such as disarmament and the promotion of human rights during tenure. Engaged in various United Nations initiatives aimed at fostering cooperation among nations.

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Doug Ring

Cricketer and sportscaster
Born
October 14th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2003 23 years ago — 85 years old

An Australian cricketer who played as a bowler for New South Wales and the national team. Represented Australia in Test cricket from 1946 to 1953, earning a total of 19 Test caps. After retiring from professional cricket, transitioned to a successful career in sportscasting, providing insights and commentary on cricket matches.

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Johnny Miles

English-Canadian marathon runner and champion
Born
October 30th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
2003 23 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1905, this athlete became a prominent figure in long-distance running, particularly in the marathon. He achieved significant success in the 1926 Boston Marathon, securing a victory with a time of 2:25:39, which set a new course record. This achievement marked a high point in his running career and established him as a leading competitor in the sport. In addition to his Boston win, he competed in various other races and earned recognition within the Canadian athletic community, contributing to the sport's development in the region. His accomplishments in the late 1920s solidified his legacy in marathon running, as he remained a respected name well beyond his active years.

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Marjorie Finlay

Opera singer and television personality
Born
October 5th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2003 23 years ago — 75 years old

An opera singer gained acclaim for performances in various operas and for her work on television. Established a career in both the concert and operatic worlds, performing with prominent companies and orchestras. Contributed to the popularity of opera through televised performances, which brought classic pieces to broader audiences. Received praise for artistry and vocal skills throughout the career.

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Nora Heysen

Australian painter, first woman to win Archibald
Born
January 11th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
2003 23 years ago — 92 years old

An Australian painter specialized in still life and portraiture. Achieved great acclaim for exceptional depictions of floral arrangements and painted notable figures, including fellow artists and family members. Became the first woman to win the Archibald Prize in 1938. Her work featured in numerous exhibitions and collections, gaining recognition for both technical skill and emotional depth. Contributed to the Australian art scene throughout her career, creating lasting works that reflect a unique perspective on identity and nature.

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Elaine Barrie

American actress in 'The Marriage Go Round'
Born
July 16th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
2003 23 years ago — 88 years old

An American actress recognized for performances in film and television during the mid-20th century. Most notable for appearing in the play 'The Marriage Go Round', which received acclaim during its original run. Also appeared in films and multiple television series, contributing to the entertainment industry of that era. Participated in various productions that showcased her acting talent and versatility.

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