What Happened This Year 2006

People Who Died in 2006

Ann Calvello

Roller derby racer and champion
Born
August 1st, 1929 97 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 77 years old

Began roller derby career in the 1940s, competing in various leagues across the United States. Gained prominence for her aggressive playing style and colorful personality. Participated in televised roller derby, which helped popularize the sport. Continued to compete into her 80s, showcasing longevity in the sport. Authored a memoir detailing experiences and challenges faced in roller derby, contributing to the history of the sport.

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Charles Bettelheim

Marxian economist and historian
Born
November 20th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 93 years old

An economist and historian contributed significantly to Marxian economic theory and historical analysis. Authored numerous works examining the intersection of Marxism and economics, particularly in relation to socialism and capitalist societies. Taught at various institutions and played a role in intellectual discussions surrounding economics and political theory. Engaged in debates about social and economic structures.

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Samuel Bowers

White supremacist and KKK leader
Born
August 6th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 82 years old

Co-founded the White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan during the civil rights movement. Bowers played a significant role in the Klan's activities in the southern United States, particularly in Mississippi. His leadership was marked by the promotion of white supremacist ideologies and violent actions against African Americans and civil rights activists. Bowers was implicated in the killings of civil rights workers and was later convicted for his involvement in racially motivated crimes.

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Denice Denton

American engineer and educator
Born
August 27th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
2006 20 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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Elizabeth Choy

Educator and politician from Singapore
Born
November 29th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
2006 20 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 100 years ago
Died
2006 20 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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Craig Kusick

Baseball player and coach
Born
September 30th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 58 years old

Played primarily as a first baseman in Major League Baseball. Debuted with the Minnesota Twins in 1971 and played until 1977. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, contributing to baseball development at various levels. Served in coaching roles with youth and collegiate teams, sharing expertise with aspiring players.

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Erna Flegel

German nurse in Führerbunker during WWII
Born
July 11th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 95 years old

A German nurse served in the Führerbunker during World War II, providing medical care to wounded soldiers and officials. Remaining during the final days of the war, witnessed the capture of the bunker by Soviet troops. Her experiences reflected the tumultuous events of the closing days of the Third Reich.

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