What Happened This Year 2006

People Who Died in 2006

John Marsden

Australian lawyer and activist
Born
January 3rd, 1942 83 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2024 0 years ago — 82 years old

A lawyer and activist, dedicated to human rights and social justice. Contributed significantly to the movement for Indigenous rights in Australia. Played a significant role in advocating for legal reforms and raising awareness about social issues. Actively participated in various campaigns and organizations that promoted equality and justice for marginalized communities. Remains a prominent figure in Australian legal and activist circles.

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Martin David Kruskal

Physicist and mathematician, soliton theory
Born
September 28th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 81 years old

A physicist and mathematician contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and physics. Developed the theory of solitons, which describes wave phenomena in various physical contexts. Worked on mathematical methods for nonlinear waves and fluid dynamics, influencing multiple disciplines. Held a position at Princeton University, engaging in research that advanced understanding of integrable systems. Authored numerous publications and participated in conferences that fostered collaboration among researchers globally.

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Henry Beachell

American biologist and botanist
Born
September 21st, 1906 118 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 100 years old

A prominent American biologist and botanist focused on rice genetics and breeding. Contributed significantly to the development of high-yielding rice varieties. Conducted extensive research that led to the creation of improved strains, which supported food production in various countries. Worked at the International Rice Research Institute and collaborated with several agricultural institutions to enhance rice cultivation methods. Published numerous papers and findings in the field of plant genetics, influencing agricultural practices globally.

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Don Walser

Singer-songwriter and country musician
Born
September 14th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 72 years old

This American musician gained recognition as a country singer-songwriter and exceptional guitarist. His career spanned several decades during which he became known for his traditional country sound and engaging performances. He released multiple albums, showcasing a blend of original compositions and classic country covers. His dedication to the genre played a significant role in the revival of traditional country music in the 1990s.

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Tony Pithey

Cricketer and record-holder in South Africa
Born
July 17th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 73 years old

Pithey was a cricketer who played primarily for South Africa. His first-class career spanned from 1951 to 1965, during which he established himself as a skilled batsman and a reliable wicketkeeper. Pithey participated in South Africa's inaugural Test match after their international isolation, contributing to the team as it re-established itself on the world stage. He also had stints playing domestic cricket in Zimbabwe, showcasing his talent across different competitions.

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Telê Santana

Football manager and player
Born
July 26th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 75 years old

Played professional football as a forward. Transitioned to coaching and led several teams, most notably the Brazilian national team during the 1982 and 1986 FIFA World Cups. Advocated for an attacking style of play. Managed São Paulo FC, winning the Copa Libertadores and Intercontinental Cup.

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Wolfgang Unzicker

German Chess Player and Tournament Competitor
Born
June 26th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent chess player, achieved the title of International Grandmaster in 1950. Competed in numerous tournaments throughout Europe, securing notable finishes. Participated in the Candidates Tournaments, a crucial series of competitions to select challengers for the World Chess Championship. Contributed to chess literature and theory, writing analysis and studies on various openings.

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Vince Welnick

Keyboard player for The Grateful Dead
Born
February 21st, 1951 74 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 55 years old

A keyboard player contributed to American rock music through work with The Grateful Dead. Joined the band in 1990, replacing Brent Mydland. Played on the group's final studio album, 'Built to Last,' released in 1989. After the band's dissolution, toured with the remaining members and participated in various offshoots like The Dead & Company. Pursued a solo career and released personal albums, showcasing original compositions and his musicianship. Engaged in various collaborative projects, continuing to influence the jam band scene until passing in 1998.

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Johnny Checketts

New Zealand World War II flying ace
Born
February 20th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent flying ace during World War II, gained recognition for significant aerial achievements in combat. Served in the Royal New Zealand Air Force and fought in the Pacific Theatre. Credited with a number of enemy aircraft shot down. Checketts' contributions to aerial warfare tactics and skills contributed to the overall efforts of his squadron, which undertook many critical missions against enemy forces.

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