What Happened This Year 2006

People Who Died in 2006

Don R. Christensen

Animator and cartoonist, created comic strips
Born
July 6th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
2006 20 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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Andy Tonkovich

Basketball player and coach
Born
November 1st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 84 years old

Played college basketball at the University of Kansas, where significant contributions to the team were made. Transitioned to a coaching career, leading various teams at different levels. Coached at prominent colleges and established a reputation for player development and team strategy. Held a long-term position as a coach, influencing the sport through direct involvement in training young athletes.

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Heinz Sielmann

German wildlife photographer and filmmaker
Born
June 2nd, 1917 109 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 89 years old

Worked primarily in wildlife photography and film direction, focusing on the beauty of nature. Established a significant career by creating documentaries that showcased various animal species and their habitats. Founded a nature conservation foundation, promoting environmental awareness through media. His works contributed to a greater understanding of wildlife conservation.

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Dr. Rajkumar

Indian actor and singer in Kannada cinema
Born
April 24th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 77 years old

An influential figure in Kannada cinema, contributed as both an actor and a singer. Debuted in the film industry in 1954 with the movie 'Bedara Kannappa.' Featured in over 200 films, becoming a household name in Karnataka. Received numerous awards, including the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, recognizing excellence in Indian cinema. Engaged in various philanthropic activities and served as a cultural icon in the region.

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Darren McGavin

Actor in 'A Christmas Story'
Born
May 7th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 84 years old

An American actor and director, recognized for a career spanning several decades in film and television. Achievements include starring in the cult classic 'A Christmas Story' as the character grumpy father. Played lead roles in various series, including 'Mike Hammer' in the 1950s, which showcased unique detective storylines. Directed and appeared in numerous television movies and series throughout the 1970s and 1980s, earning a reputation for versatility.

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Budhi Kunderan

Indian cricketer and wicketkeeper
Born
October 2nd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 67 years old

Contributed significantly to Indian cricket during the 1960s. Played as a wicketkeeper-batsman in international matches. Made Test debut against Australia in 1960. Participated in 27 Test matches, scoring over 1,400 runs with a batting average near 30. Known for a memorable performance during the 1967 Test series against New Zealand, where he made notable contributions behind the stumps and with the bat. Retired from international cricket in the late 1960s but continued to influence the game at the domestic level through coaching and mentoring aspiring cricketers.

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Len Carlson

Voice Actor in Canadian Animation
Born
September 2nd, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 69 years old

Active in the voice acting industry from the late 1960s, this individual contributed significantly to Canadian animation. Roles included lead voices in popular series such as 'The Raccoons' and 'Babar'. Worked on numerous other animated programs and commercials. His career spanned over four decades, adding depth to the characters voiced.

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Ken Mosdell

Ice hockey player, NHL All-Star
Born
July 13th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 84 years old

A Canadian ice hockey player, played primarily as a right winger during the NHL's early years. Participated in the league from 1942 to 1956, playing for teams such as the Montreal Canadiens, Detroit Red Wings, and New York Rangers. Contributed significantly to the Montreal Canadiens, winning the Stanley Cup in 1944. Selected as an NHL All-Star during his career, recognized for outstanding performance in professional ice hockey.

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John S. Lesmeister

American politician and educator
Born
October 3rd, 1955 70 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 51 years old

An educator and politician served as the 30th North Dakota State Treasurer from 2001 to 2009. Held a significant role in state financial management and education policy. Engaged in various community initiatives to enhance educational opportunities and financial literacy. Contributed to local governance and served in multiple educational committees throughout career.

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