What Happened This Year 2006

People Who Died in 2006

Andy Tonkovich

Basketball player and coach
Born
November 1st, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2006 19 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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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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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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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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Rolande Falcinelli

French organist and composer
Born
February 18th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 86 years old

An accomplished organist, pianist, composer, and pedagogue, contributions spanned performance and education. Served as a professor at the Conservatoire de Paris, influencing generations of musicians. Composed numerous works for organ and piano, blending traditional and contemporary styles. Involved in promoting organ music and enhancing the repertoire within the classical music community.

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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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Patricia Helen Kennedy

American socialite and activist writer
Born
May 6th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 82 years old

An American socialite and activist, her contributions spanned multiple causes, including civil rights and environmental issues. Her writings highlighted social justice and activism, reflecting commitment to societal improvement. Throughout life, engagement with prominent organizations reinforced dedication to change. The influence of notable family members shaped philanthropic endeavors, directing efforts toward impactful community initiatives and discussions.

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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 78 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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