What Happened This Year 2008

People Who Died in 2008

Tony Snow

Journalist and White House Press Secretary
Born
June 1st, 1955 69 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2008 16 years ago — 53 years old

Worked as a journalist and served as the 26th White House Press Secretary. Began a prominent career in journalism with a focus on political commentary and analysis. Held positions at various media outlets, including Fox News, where commentary and reporting on political events were central. Served as White House Press Secretary under President George W. Bush from 2006 until 2007, during which regular press briefings were conducted, and worked to communicate the administration's policies to the public.

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Bobby Murcer

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
May 20th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2008 16 years ago — 62 years old

A baseball player, coach, and sportscaster, the individual played primarily for the New York Yankees. Career in Major League Baseball spanned 17 seasons, debuting in 1965. As an outfielder, achieved 1,400 hits, 175 home runs, and 1,000 runs batted in. Transitioned to sportscasting after retirement, becoming a prominent Yankees broadcaster and earning recognition in the field.

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Bronisław Geremek

Polish historian and Minister of Foreign Affairs
Born
March 6th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2008 16 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1932, studied history at the University of Warsaw. Contributed to Solidarity, the Polish trade union movement, in the 1980s. Served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1997 to 2000, advocating for Poland's integration into the European Union and NATO. Played a key role in the transition of Poland from communism to democracy. Participated in numerous international conferences, emphasizing human rights and democratic values.

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György Kolonics

Hungarian canoe racer and Olympian
Born
1972 53 years ago
Died
July 15th, 2008 16 years ago — 36 years old

Competed in sprint canoe events, earning significant accolades in international competitions. Secured two gold medals at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and trained extensively with the national team. Achieved multiple victories at the Canoe Sprint World Championships, establishing a reputation as a leading athlete in the sport. Helped promote canoe racing in Hungary through participation in various events and coaching initiatives.

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Lindsay Thompson

Australian politician, 40th Premier of Victoria
Born
October 15th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2008 16 years ago — 84 years old

Served as Premier of Victoria from 1981 to 1982. Engaged in various leadership roles within the Liberal Party and contributed significantly to Victorian politics. Held ministerial positions and was involved in legislative processes that shaped the state's governance and policy frameworks.

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Jo Stafford

American singer of popular music
Born
November 12th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2008 16 years ago — 90 years old

Engaged in a successful career as a popular music singer, recognized in the mid-20th century. Began as part of the Pied Pipers vocal group and later achieved solo success. Gained popularity with hits such as "You Belong to Me" and "Make Love to Me." Worked with major record labels, leading to multiple chart-topping songs. Career spanned from the 1940s to the 1960s, showcasing versatility across genres including pop and traditional pop. Appeared on various radio and television programs, further expanding public recognition.

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Dercy Gonçalves

Brazilian actress and comedian
Born
June 23rd, 1907 117 years ago
Died
July 19th, 2008 16 years ago — 101 years old

Born on June 23, 1907, this individual had a prolific career as an actress and singer in Brazil. With a career spanning several decades, significant contributions included performances in theater and television. The individual starred in the renowned Brazilian television series 'A Praça é Nossa' and the movie 'O Trapalhão nas Minas do Rei Salomão'. Recognized for humor and theatricality, performances often showcased a blend of comedy and musical talent.

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Artie Traum

American guitarist and songwriter
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2008 16 years ago — 65 years old

Acclaimed as a skilled guitarist, songwriter, and producer, contributions included work in folk and blues music. Achieved recognition for collaborations with notable artists and released several solo albums. Established a reputation in the music industry for a distinct slide guitar style and intricate fingerpicking techniques. Played an essential role in the music scene, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s, and influenced many up-and-coming musicians.

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Estelle Getty

Actress best known for The Golden Girls
Born
July 25th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 2008 16 years ago — 84 years old

An American actress gained prominence through the role of Sophia Petrillo on the television series The Golden Girls. This role garnered significant acclaim and led to a successful career in television and film. Additionally, starred in the movie Mask alongside Cher, showcasing versatility as an actress. Received multiple awards for contributions to entertainment, including an Emmy Award nomination. Also performed in various stage productions, further displaying talent in acting.

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