What Happened This Year 2006

People Who Died in 2006

Wang Xuan

Computer Scientist and Academic
Born
February 5th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 69 years old

Contributions to computer science include work on Chinese character recognition and input methods. Developed the first Chinese word processor and contributed to advancements in text processing for Chinese languages. Held a professor position and served in various academic roles throughout a career dedicated to promoting computer science in China.

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Nelson S. Bond

American author and playwright
Born
November 23rd, 1908 116 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 98 years old

An American author and playwright whose works spanned multiple genres including fantasy, science fiction, and drama. Bond's writing career began in the 1930s, and he became recognized for his contributions to both literature and theater. His plays gained attention for their innovation and richness in character. Bond also published numerous short stories and novels, establishing a significant presence in the pulp fiction market. His work continued to influence aspiring writers and playwrights for decades.

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J Dilla

American rapper and music producer
Born
February 7th, 1974 51 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 32 years old

A prominent figure in hip-hop music, contributed as a producer and rapper with a distinctive style that influenced modern music. Released the critically acclaimed album 'Donuts' shortly before passing away in 2006. Worked with numerous artists and formed part of the influential group Slum Village, which he co-founded. His innovative use of sampling and drum programming set a standard in the genre.

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King Floyd

American singer-songwriter and musician
Born
February 13th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent figure in the funk and soul music genres, this artist gained recognition with the hit single 'Groove Me,' released in 1970. The song reached No. 1 on the R&B chart and climbed to No. 28 on the Billboard Hot 100. His smooth vocals and distinct style attracted a dedicated following during the peak of his career. The artist released several albums throughout the 1970s, notable for blending elements of funk, soul, and R&B. Although the mainstream success waned over the subsequent decades, live performances and recordings continued to showcase musical talent and creativity, culminating in a lasting legacy within the genre.

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Jean-Jacques Servan-Schreiber

French journalist and politician
Born
February 13th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 82 years old

Servan-Schreiber worked as a journalist and politician in France. He founded the newspaper L'Express in 1953, which became influential in French journalism. He served as a member of the National Assembly from 1967 to 1973. As a politician, he advocated for European integration and modernization of France's economy. His writings significantly influenced public opinion and political discourse in post-war France, particularly during periods of societal change.

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Sally Gray

English actress and singer in film and stage
Born
February 14th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1915, this English actress and singer gained prominence in the mid-20th century. Appearing in several films and stage productions, significant roles included performances in 'The Man from Morocco' and 'The Young Lovers'. In addition to acting, vocal talents were showcased in various music performances during her career. Contributions to the entertainment industry spanned several decades.

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Denice Denton

American engineer and educator
Born
August 27th, 1959 65 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 47 years old

An accomplished engineer and academic, her work focused on electrical engineering and computer science. Denton served as the Dean of the College of Engineering at the University of Washington and held the position of the first female dean in the College's history. Contributed significantly to advancements in women in engineering and education, promoting diversity within the technical fields. Played a pivotal role in developing programs aimed at increasing the enrollment of women and underrepresented minorities in engineering disciplines.

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Kintarō Ōki

Wrestler and Olympic gold medalist
Born
February 24th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 77 years old

Achieved significant success in freestyle wrestling. Competed in the 1960 Rome Olympics, securing a gold medal in the men's lightweight division. Participated in multiple international competitions, demonstrating consistent performance and technical skills. Later transitioned to coaching, influencing a new generation of wrestlers in South Korea.

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Machiko Soga

Japanese actress in Super Sentai series
Born
March 18th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 68 years old

An actress recognized for contributions to the Japanese television scene, notable for portraying the villainess Bandora in the series Kyōryū Sentai Zyuranger. Soga performed in the role from 1992 to 1993, which became iconic and contributed to the show's enduring popularity both in Japan and internationally. Additionally, she appeared in various films and television dramas throughout her career, showcasing her range as a performer.

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