What Happened This Year 2006

People Who Died in 2006

Luke Graham

Professional wrestler and promoter
Born
February 5th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 66 years old

Graham entered the wrestling scene in the early 1960s and rose to prominence throughout the decade. Competing primarily in the United States, he was recognized for his technical skills and charismatic persona. Graham held multiple championships during his career and became involved in wrestling promotion, contributing to the growth of the sport. His influence extended beyond his in-ring career, as he helped train future generations of wrestlers.

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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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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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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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Elizabeth Choy

Educator and politician from Singapore
Born
November 29th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 96 years old

An educator and politician, this individual played a significant role in Singapore's political landscape post-World War II. During the Japanese occupation of Singapore, involvement in resistance activities occurred, leading to imprisonment. After the war, contribution to education and politics continued, notably serving in the Legislative Council and advocating for social causes. A commitment to education led to initiatives that aimed to improve learning opportunities for children. The work focused on fostering a better understanding of civic responsibilities among citizens.

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Ian Hamilton Finlay

Scottish poet and garden sculptor
Born
October 28th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 81 years old

A Bahamian-Scottish poet, sculptor, and gardener, contributed significantly to the concrete poetry movement. Engaged in creating a landscape of art that combined language and sculpture within garden settings. His work often reflected themes of nature, history, and politics. Founded Little Sparta, a unique garden and artistic project in Scotland, which integrated poetry and visual art into the landscape.

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Mayme Agnew Clayton

American librarian and archivist
Born
August 4th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 84 years old

An influential librarian and archivist who founded the African American Library at the Gregory School in Los Angeles. Focused on collecting and preserving materials that document the African American experience. Worked extensively to promote literacy and provide access to cultural resources. Established the Mayme Agnew Clayton Library and Museum, which houses a significant collection of African American literature and historical documents.

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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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Arne Hoel

Norwegian ski jumper Olympic medalist
Born
April 5th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 79 years old

Competed in ski jumping events during the 1950s and achieved notable successes. Participated in the 1952 Winter Olympics held in Oslo, Norway, where secured a bronze medal. Contributed to the sport through participation in various championships and competitions, representing Norway.

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