What Happened This Year 2007

People Who Died in 2007

Butch van Breda Kolff

Basketball player and coach
Born
October 28th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 85 years old

Played college basketball at Lafayette College and later earned recognition as a head coach in NCAA basketball. Coached teams at the University of New York at Albany and at the University of New Orleans, leading a successful career in coaching. Served as a coach for several professional teams including the Detroit Pistons and the New Jersey Nets. Contributed to the game by influencing many young players and coaches during decades of involvement in basketball.

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Roger Smith

Businessman and former CEO of GM
Born
July 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 82 years old

Led General Motors as CEO from 1981 to 1990, implementing significant changes in the company's structure and strategy. Oversaw the development of various models, including the Chevrolet Corvette and the Cadillac line. Faced challenges due to economic conditions and competition in the automotive industry. Retired in 1990 after a decade of leadership.

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Antonio Lamer

Canadian lawyer and chief justice
Born
July 8th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 74 years old

Served as the 16th Chief Justice of Canada from 1990 to 2000. Prior to this role, held significant positions within the Canadian legal system including being a judge of the Supreme Court of Canada. Contributed to the development of various legal principles during tenure. After retirement from the bench, engaged in various legal and community activities, continuing to influence the legal landscape in Canada.

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Marquise Hill

American football player and defensive end
Born
August 7th, 1982 43 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 25 years old

Played as a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL) for the New England Patriots. Drafted in the second round of the 2004 NFL Draft. Contributed to the team's Super Bowl XXXIX victory in 2005. Played college football at Louisiana State University (LSU), where earned All-SEC honors. Tragically passed away in 2007.

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Walter Hendl

American pianist and conductor
Born
January 12th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent figure in American classical music, contributed extensively as a pianist and conductor. Served as music director for the Brooklyn Philharmonic and led various orchestras across the United States. Composed several works for orchestra and chamber ensembles. Played a significant role in the development of American music through performances and recordings. Hendl's artistry was evident in both solo recitals and orchestral settings, showcasing the depth of classical repertoire.

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Elizabeth Murray

Painter and illustrator of abstract works
Born
September 6th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1940, this American painter and illustrator developed a unique style characterized by colorful, abstract shapes and forms. In the late 1970s and 1980s, worked prominently in the New York art scene. The use of unconventional canvases, including shaped and sprawling formats, distinguished artwork in exhibitions. Participated in numerous solo and group exhibitions, and became part of the dialogue on feminist art. Artworks reside in prestigious collections, including the Museum of Modern Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art.

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Carolyn Goodman

American psychologist and activist
Born
October 6th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 92 years old

Significant contributions to the civil rights movement occurred in the mid-20th century. Active involvement in issues of racial inequality and social justice took place. Founded the Spingarn Medal, awarded by the NAACP, for outstanding achievements by African Americans. Served as a president and influential figure of various organizations advocating for social change.

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Teala Loring

American actress and film star
Born
October 6th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 85 years old

An actress active in the 1940s and 1950s, best recognized for roles in the films 'The Devil Bat' and 'The Baby Maker'. Appeared in numerous films and television programs during her career, contributing to the entertainment industry through a variety of performances. Worked with several prominent studios of the time and built a reputation in the horror and drama genres.

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Benny Parsons

Race car driver and sportscaster
Born
July 12th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 66 years old

Gained prominence as a race car driver, primarily competing in NASCAR. Won the 1973 NASCAR Cup Series championship while driving for the team known as the Flying Aces. Transitioned to a successful career as a television commentator and analyst after retiring from racing. Became a respected voice in the sport, providing insights and analysis throughout televised events.

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