What Happened This Year 2008

People Who Died in 2008

Ahmad Faraz

Pakistani poet renowned for Urdu poetry
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2008 16 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent Urdu poet, recognized for poignant romantic verses and innovative styles. Born in 1931, the work often explored themes of love, loss, and longing. Faraz completed his education in Peshawar before moving to Lahore, where he became a central figure in literary circles. His poetry resonated with both the public and literary critics, contributing to the richness of Urdu literature. Faraz's collections, such as 'Ghazals of Ahmad Faraz' and 'Dard Ashob', gained critical acclaim and widespread popularity. He served as the poet laureate of Pakistan and received several awards throughout his career. Faraz passed away on August 25, 2008, leaving behind a legacy of rich literary contributions.

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Phil Hill

Race car driver and 1961 F1 champion
Born
April 20th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2008 16 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent race car driver, achieved significant success in the world of motorsport. Competed in Formula One and became the first American driver to win the F1 World Championship in 1961, driving for Scuderia Ferrari. During a career spanning over two decades, participated in various prestigious races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Established a reputation for skill in endurance racing, contributing to the advancement of automotive performance and engineering.

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Geoffrey Perkins

English actor, producer, and screenwriter
Born
1953 72 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2008 16 years ago — 55 years old

An English actor, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to British television and film. In the late 1980s, produced episodes of 'Spitting Image', a satirical puppet show. Worked as a producer for 'The Fast Show,' which gained a cult following. Also contributed to the development of the legendary British sitcom 'Doctor Who' as a writer and producer. Held various roles in television and film, showcasing talents in comedy and drama.

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Killer Kowalski

Professional Wrestler and Trainer
Born
October 13th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2008 16 years ago — 81 years old

Started wrestling career in the 1940s. Gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s due to a unique persona and in-ring abilities. Competed in various promotions, achieving notable success in the World Wide Wrestling Federation. Transitioned into a training role, influencing the careers of several future wrestling stars. Retired in the late 1980s, but remained involved in the wrestling community until death in 2008.

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Ken Campbell

English actor, director, and screenwriter
Born
December 10th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2008 16 years ago — 66 years old

This individual contributed significantly to theatre and television in England. Active during the 20th century, involvement included a prominent role in the Science Fiction Theatre of Liverpool, blending innovative storytelling with experimental performance techniques. Leadership in the experimental theatre movement established a reputation for originality and creativity. Collaboration with notable playwrights and other artists further enriched the artistic landscape.

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Thomas J. Bata

Czech-Canadian businessman and shoemaker
Born
September 17th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2008 16 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1914, a Czech-Canadian businessman played a crucial role in the global footwear industry through the Bata Shoe Organization. After facing disruptions during World War II, relocation to Canada occurred, where expansion of the business took place. The organization became one of the largest footwear manufacturers in the world. Contributions included retail innovation and the establishment of the first Bata manufacturing plant in Canada, which significantly increased production capabilities. The brand became synonymous with affordable quality footwear worldwide.

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Jerry Reed

Singer-songwriter and actor in country music
Born
March 20th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2008 16 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in country music and film, this artist gained recognition for distinctive guitar playing and songwriting skills. Initiated a music career in the 1950s, producing hit songs such as 'When You're Hot, You're Hot' and 'East Bound and Down', the theme song for the movie 'Smokey and the Bandit'. Also acted alongside Burt Reynolds in that film and contributed to its soundtrack. Throughout the career, collaborated with other notable musicians and received several awards for contributions to the genre, including induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

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Alan Waddell

Australian racewalker and Olympian
Born
July 24th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2008 16 years ago — 94 years old

Competed in racewalking and represented Australia at an international level. Participated in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, where racewalking was included in the program. Achieved notable success in various competitions, showcasing endurance and technique unique to the sport. Contributed significantly to the development of walking athletics in Australia through participation and promotion.

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Bill Melendez

Voice actor and animator for Peanuts
Born
November 15th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2008 16 years ago — 91 years old

A Mexican-American voice actor, animator, director, and producer, contributed greatly to the Peanuts franchise. Worked as a director for numerous animated specials and features based on Charles M. Schulz's comic strip. Voiced the character of Snoopy in many productions and played key roles in bringing the beloved characters to life through animation. Established an animation studio that focused on producing high-quality animated projects. Collaborated with various networks and produced seasonal specials, achieving significant acclaim within the animation community.

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