What Happened This Year 2006

People Who Died in 2006

Drafi Deutscher

German singer-songwriter and musician
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
June 9th, 2006 18 years ago — 60 years old

Drafi Deutscher was a German singer-songwriter and musician active primarily in the 1960s and 1970s. His career began in the early 1960s when he formed the band The Rattles, contributing to the German beat and rock scene. In 1965, he gained significant recognition with the hit single 'Marmor, Stein und Eisen bricht,' which topped the German charts and became a classic in German pop music. Deutscher's style blended pop, rock, and Schlager, appealing to a wide audience. Throughout his career, he produced numerous successful songs and albums, with his work greatly influencing the German music landscape. He continued to perform and write music until his later years, remaining a notable figure in the entertainment industry.

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Bruce Shand

English soldier
Born
January 22nd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2006 18 years ago — 89 years old

Served as an officer in the British Army, participating in various military campaigns. Had a notable career, including service during World War II. Played a role in the military operations and was involved in training exercises thereafter. Served in the Royal Gurkha Rifles and achieved the rank of Major. Post-military career included contributions to various charitable organizations.

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Neroli Fairhall

New Zealand archer and Paralympic medalist
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2006 18 years ago — 62 years old

Became the first paraplegic archer to compete in the Olympic Games, representing New Zealand in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Specialized in target archery and participated in the 1988 Seoul Paralympics, where achieved high individual rankings. Fairhall played a significant role in promoting the inclusion of disabled athletes in archery competitions. A passionate advocate for sports accessibility, contributed to changes that improved opportunities for para-athletes in New Zealand.

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Kenneth Thomson

Canadian businessman and art collector
Born
September 1st, 1923 101 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2006 18 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the 2nd Baron Thomson of Fleet, overseeing a significant media empire. Played a pivotal role in the expansion of the Thomson Corporation. Involved in extensive art collection and philanthropy, with a focus on supporting Canadian art institutions. Made notable contributions to various charitable causes throughout his lifetime.

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György Ligeti

Hungarian-Austrian composer of avant-garde music
Born
May 28th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2006 18 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1923, this composer contributed significantly to contemporary classical music. Studied at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest. Emigrated to the West in 1956, settling in Austria. Worked with various forms of music, including orchestral, choral, and chamber compositions. Influenced by multiple musical styles and integrated complex rhythms and textures into works. Achieved recognition for compositions such as "Atmosphères," "Lux Aeterna," and the opera "Le Grand Macabre."

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Nicky Barr

Rugby player, soldier, and pilot
Born
December 10th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2006 18 years ago — 90 years old

Participated in rugby union at a high level with the Australian national team. Served in the Australian Army during World War II, participating in key battles while also fulfilling duties as a pilot. Contributed to the war effort both in combat and through aviation roles. After the war, continued involvement in rugby, influencing future generations of players.

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Charles Haughey

Irish politician and Taoiseach
Born
September 16th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
June 13th, 2006 18 years ago — 80 years old

Served as the 7th Taoiseach of Ireland from 1979 to 1981 and again from 1982 to 1987. Represented the Fianna Fáil party and held various ministerial positions throughout his career, including Minister for Finance and Minister for Justice. Played a significant role in Irish politics during a period of economic challenges and social change. Oversaw policies that aimed at modernizing the Irish economy. His tenure was marked by controversy and political conflict, especially over issues of governance and corruption allegations.

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Jean Roba

Belgian author and illustrator of comics
Born
July 28th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
June 14th, 2006 18 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed significantly to the world of comics as an author and illustrator. Created the beloved comic series Boule et Bill, which follows the adventures of a young boy and his pet dog. The series became popular in Belgium and France, appearing in various publications. Roba also collaborated on several other comic projects and participated in comic festivals throughout his career.

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Raymond Devos

Belgian-French comedian and clown
Born
November 9th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2006 18 years ago — 83 years old

Originated from Belgium and later became a French citizen, a significant figure in comedy known for clever wordplay and unique humor. Started a career in the 1940s and frequently performed at the Olympia in Paris. Gained popularity through theatrical works and radio shows which showcased an innovative approach to humor. Also known for contributions to cinema, taking part in several films that encapsulated his comedic style. Establishing a distinctive voice in entertainment, he became a beloved figure in French culture.

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