What Happened This Year 2006

People Who Died in 2006

King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV

Monarch of Tonga and constitutional reformer
Born
July 4th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 88 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1965, ruling until 2006. Implemented significant constitutional reforms that transitioned Tonga towards a more democratic governance structure. Played a vital role in increasing the political participation of commoners in the Tongan government. Engaged in various international diplomatic missions. Focused on promoting education and economic development within Tonga.

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Billy Mauch

American actor in 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer'
Born
July 6th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 85 years old

Billy Mauch was an American actor who gained recognition in the early 20th century. He performed in film adaptations and stage plays, showcasing his talents in various roles. His most notable performance was in the title role of 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer', a film released in 1930. Mauch's portrayal contributed to the film's success and highlighted his acting abilities, leading to further opportunities in the entertainment industry. Mauch also had a career in radio and worked on several projects throughout his acting career, establishing himself in the performing arts.

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Don R. Christensen

Animator and cartoonist, created comic strips
Born
July 6th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 90 years old

An American animator and cartoonist, this individual contributed significantly to the field of animation and illustration. His career included work on animated series and creation of comic strips that captivated audiences. Additionally, this person demonstrated creativity as a writer and inventor in the arts, contributing to various forms of media and traditional animation. Through innovative storytelling and artistic skills, this individual left a notable mark in the animation world.

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Henry McGee

English actor and singer
Born
May 14th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 77 years old

An English actor and singer, gained prominence in the entertainment industry through various performances in television and theatre. Best recognized for roles in the series 'The Benny Hill Show' and 'The Good Old Days'. Besides acting, contributed to musical performances, showcasing vocal talents in various productions. Active in the industry for several decades, leaving a mark with a blend of comedy and music.

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Benno Besson

Actor and director of 'The Threepenny Opera'
Born
November 4th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 84 years old

An actor, director, and screenwriter born in Switzerland. Worked extensively in theater and film, contributing significantly to adaptations of Bertolt Brecht's works. Directed productions in various languages and influenced European stage practices. Besson's collaborative efforts with prominent playwrights shaped the post-war theater landscape in Germany and Switzerland.

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A. M. Rosenthal

Journalist and author of 'Upon the Head of the Goat'
Born
May 2nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Canada and later moved to the United States, a significant figure in journalism, and served as a foreign correspondent for The New York Times. Worked as a foreign desk editor during the Vietnam War, reporting on crucial events. Authored several books, including 'Upon the Head of the Goat,' which reflects on experiences during the Holocaust. Contributed to discussions on foreign policy and domestic issues through editorials. Led initiatives to improve journalism ethics and accountability.

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Chris Penn

American actor in 'Reservoir Dogs'
Born
October 10th, 1965 60 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 41 years old

An American actor, recognized for work in film and television. Gained significant attention for roles in 'Reservoir Dogs' and 'Footloose'. Participated in several other projects that contributed to a steady acting career throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Also appeared in series including 'The Prince of Pennsylvania'. His performances demonstrated a range of characters across different genres. Worked in both independent films and mainstream cinema, contributing to a notable acting portfolio until passing in 2006.

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Leon Henkin

American logician and mathematician
Born
April 19th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 85 years old

Contributed significantly to mathematical logic and model theory. Developed key concepts in recursive functions and their applications. Authored multiple influential texts that served as foundational references in the field of logic. Served as a professor at various prestigious institutions, including the University of California, Berkeley, and made notable contributions to the education of future logicians and mathematicians.

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Rick van der Linden

Dutch keyboard player and songwriter
Born
August 5th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1946, a prominent keyboard player and songwriter emerged in the progressive rock scene as a member of the band Ekseption. The band blended classical music with rock and was highly influential in the 1970s, achieving considerable success with their adaptations of classical pieces. Additionally, contributed significantly to the music world with his inventive compositions and arrangements, showcasing skills on various instruments, particularly the organ and piano. Later, participated in other projects, continuing to demonstrate musical versatility and creativity throughout his career.

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