What Happened This Year 2008

People Who Died in 2008

Norm O'Neill

Australian cricketer and sportscaster
Born
February 19th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 71 years old

Played international cricket for Australia from 1958 to 1965, primarily as a batsman. Contributed to the team during several Test matches and participated in the successful Ashes series of 1961. Transitioned to a career in sports broadcasting after retirement, providing insights and commentary on cricket for various media outlets.

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Richard Hickox

Conductor of classical music and opera
Born
March 5th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent conductor and scholar, notable for contributions to classical music. Served as the principal conductor for several prestigious orchestras, including the BBC National Orchestra of Wales. Conducted world premieres and made significant recordings, especially focusing on British choral music. Involved with major opera houses, enhancing the performance quality and accessibility of classical works.

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Dottie Rambo

American singer-songwriter and gospel artist
Born
March 2nd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 74 years old

A prolific songwriter and performer in the gospel music genre, contributed significantly to the Christian music landscape. Started performing at a young age and gained national attention through numerous albums and live performances. Helped popularize Southern gospel music through heartfelt songwriting and distinctive vocal style. The career included over 2,500 songs, many of which became staples in the genre. Received multiple accolades and awards throughout her career, including induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.

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Wang Yung-ching

Businessman and founder of Formosa Plastics
Born
January 18th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 91 years old

Born in Taiwan, an entrepreneur established Formosa Plastics Corporation in 1954, which became one of the largest plastic manufacturers in the world. Immigrated to the United States, and expanded business operations in petrochemicals and manufacturing. Played a crucial role in the development of the Taiwanese economy during the 20th century. Significant contributions to charitable efforts, particularly in education.

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Bob Cunis

New Zealand cricketer, Test player
Born
January 5th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 67 years old

Cunis played as a right-arm fast-medium bowler for New Zealand's national cricket team from 1969 to 1977. His international career spanned 12 Test matches. In first-class cricket, he represented Auckland and was known for his effectiveness as a bowler and his ability to contribute in the lower order. Cunis was a part of New Zealand's early cricketing achievements, contributing to the team's development during a formative period. His performances helped establish a foundation for future New Zealand cricket.

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Mike Bell

Professional wrestler and promoter
Born
March 18th, 1971 53 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 37 years old

Born in 1971, a professional wrestler who gained attention in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) during the late 1990s. In addition to wrestling, involvement in promoting wrestling events was significant, leading to the establishment of various independent wrestling promotions. Recognition came through participation in innovative wrestling matches and collaborations with notable wrestling personalities. Contributions to the wrestling community included training emerging talents and engaging in promotional activities that enhanced wrestling visibility.

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Dorothy Porter

Australian poet and playwright, The Monkey's Mask
Born
March 26th, 1954 70 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 54 years old

This individual was an influential Australian poet and playwright, recognized for contributions to contemporary Australian literature. One of the hallmark works includes the verse novel 'The Monkey's Mask', which combines elements of crime and romance while exploring themes of desire and identity. The work received critical acclaim and highlighted the innovative use of poetic form in storytelling. Additionally, numerous poetry collections showcased a distinctive voice and exploration of personal and political themes, solidifying a significant presence in the literary scene.

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Klaus Dinger

Guitarist and songwriter for Neu!
Born
March 24th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 62 years old

Born in Germany in 1946, contributed significantly to the krautrock genre as a guitarist and songwriter. Co-founded the influential band Neu! in the early 1970s, which became a cornerstone of the genre. Neu! was characterized by its innovative sound and use of rhythm, leaving a lasting influence on many music styles that followed. Additionally worked with other bands, including La Dusseldorf, expanding the fusion of rock and electronic sounds. Contributions shaped the landscape of modern music well beyond his time.

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Marpessa Dawn

Actress in Black Orpheus
Born
January 3rd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 74 years old

Born in the United States and later becoming a French citizen, an actress, singer, and dancer achieved prominence through her role in the film 'Black Orpheus', which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1960. The film, a vibrant retelling of the Orpheus and Eurydice myth set in Rio de Janeiro, showcased both talent and charisma. Beyond film, performed in various theatrical productions and contributed to the arts through dance and music, establishing a multi-faceted career that spanned continents.

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