What Happened This Year 2008

People Who Died in 2008

Kazys Petkevičius

Lithuanian basketball player and coach
Born
January 1st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2008 16 years ago — 82 years old

Played professional basketball in Lithuania and served as a coach later in life. Contributed to the development of the sport in the region. Had a lengthy coaching career and was involved in various basketball programs, mentoring young athletes. His experience in international competitions further shaped Lithuanian basketball.

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Robert Furman

Engineer and intelligence officer
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2008 16 years ago — 93 years old

An American engineer and intelligence officer. Played a significant role in the U.S. Army's intelligence operations. Contributed to the development of advanced technologies for reconnaissance and surveillance. Served in key positions that influenced military strategy and national security during the Cold War.

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Jack Narz

Game Show Host with 'The Joker's Wild'
Born
November 13th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
October 15th, 2008 16 years ago — 85 years old

Game show host and announcer emerged in the entertainment industry during the 1950s. Hosted several popular game shows, including 'The Joker's Wild' and 'Jackpot', which gained significant viewership. Acted as an announcer for various television programs and events throughout the career. Contributed to the format and style of game shows during a pivotal time in television history.

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Fazıl Hüsnü Dağlarca

Turkish poet and soldier with notable verse
Born
August 26th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
October 15th, 2008 16 years ago — 94 years old

Born in 1914, a Turkish soldier and poet gained recognition through a body of work that reflects both military experience and literary creativity. His poetry often captured the essence of Turkish identity and wrestling with existential themes. Dağlarca published numerous poetry collections, gaining significant attention in the Turkish literary world. Active during periods of conflict, his writings intertwined personal and national narratives, addressing themes of war and peace. Over the years, his literary output included various styles and subjects, earning him the title of one of Turkey's prominent 20th-century poets. Acknowledged for contributions to literature, he received multiple awards throughout his career.

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Edie Adams

Actress and singer from Broadway shows
Born
April 16th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
October 15th, 2008 16 years ago — 81 years old

An American actress and singer gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. Achieved recognition for performances in musicals, television shows, and films. Starred in the Broadway production of "Bells Are Ringing" and appeared in the television series "The Ed Sullivan Show" multiple times. Also received acclaim for her appearances in films such as "The Apartment," which won an Academy Award for Best Picture. Worked alongside numerous notable figures in the entertainment industry and showcased vocal talents through various recordings. Later in career, engaged in philanthropy and active support of educational initiatives.

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Urmas Ott

Estonian journalist and author
Born
April 23rd, 1955 69 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2008 16 years ago — 53 years old

An influential journalist and author, served as an editor for various Estonian publications. Played a significant role in the establishment of independent media in Estonia following the Soviet era. Actively contributed to the discourse on journalism and literature in Estonia, providing critical insights into the sociopolitical landscape of the country, especially during the transitional period in the early 1990s. Authored several works that explored themes of identity, freedom, and the complexities of modern Estonian society.

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Levi Stubbs

American singer of The Four Tops
Born
June 6th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2008 16 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent soul singer, celebrated for being the lead vocalist of the Motown group The Four Tops. The group achieved widespread success in the 1960s and 1970s with a series of hit songs. The most enduring hits include 'I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch),' 'Reach Out I'll Be There,' and 'It’s the Same Old Song.' Stubbs's powerful and emotive voice helped define the sound of the period and left a lasting legacy in the music industry. The Four Tops continued to perform well into the 21st century, ensuring the group's music remained popular through multiple generations.

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Dee Dee Warwick

American singer with Atlantic Records hits
Born
September 25th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2008 16 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent figure in the American music scene, this singer gained recognition for contributions to soul and R&B music during the 1960s. Collaborations included performances and recordings with various artists, most notably the renowned Dionne Warwick. The singer's work with Atlantic Records resulted in several charting singles that showcased vocal talent. Struggles with personal issues impacted the career trajectory.

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Richard Blackwell

American actor and fashion designer
Born
August 29th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
October 19th, 2008 16 years ago — 86 years old

An accomplished actor and fashion designer, significant contributions to the fashion industry included designing unique styles that were popular in various media. Gained recognition as a fashion critic, providing insights during the peak of his career. Acted in several television shows and films, showcasing an eclectic range of roles over the decades. Openly shared perspectives on fashion, establishing a distinctive persona within the industry.

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