What Happened This Year 2008

People Who Died in 2008

Dave Stevens

Illustrator of 'The Rocketeer'
Born
July 29th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 53 years old

An American illustrator gained prominence through contributions to the comic book industry. Created the iconic character The Rocketeer, which debuted in 1982 and became a significant work within the superhero genre. Also worked on various other comic series, showcasing a distinctive art style that combined elements of nostalgia with modern storytelling. Developed a reputation for paying homage to the pulpy aesthetics of earlier eras in American culture. Contributions included work for major publications and collaborations with notable artists.

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John Phillip Law

American actor in sci-fi classics
Born
September 7th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 71 years old

An American actor gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s. Starred in the science fiction classic 'Barbarella' as Pygar, a blind angel. Appeared in 'The Golden Voyage of Sinbad' as Prince Koura, showcasing talent in fantasy films. Worked in various genres, including drama and comedy, throughout a lengthy career. Made guest appearances on television shows, contributing to the entertainment landscape.

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Fernest Arceneaux

Accordion player and American singer
Born
August 27th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 68 years old

Born in Louisiana, a prominent figure in Cajun music, Arceneaux gained recognition as an accomplished accordionist and vocalist. Influenced by traditional Cajun sounds, performances showcased a blend of cultural heritage and modern interpretations. His contributions to the genre included recordings that preserved and promoted Cajun culture. Live performances highlighted the charm of Cajun dance music across various venues and festivals.

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Louis-Philippe de Grandpré

Canadian lawyer and jurist
Born
February 6th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 91 years old

Practiced law in Quebec, serving as a significant figure in the Canadian legal landscape. Appointed to the Superior Court of Quebec in 1968, contributed to the development of legal principles in the province. Also served as a judge on the Quebec Court of Appeal, influencing numerous legal decisions until retirement. Engaged in various committees to reform and enhance the judicial system in Canada. Advocate for legal education and increased access to justice.

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Colin Murdoch

Pharmacist and inventor of tranquilliser gun
Born
February 6th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 79 years old

A pharmacist and veterinarian originally from New Zealand, dedicated a significant portion of life to the development of innovative veterinary practices. Invented the tranquilliser gun in the 1950s, a tool that revolutionized the way animals were safely captured and treated. Created various veterinary products that enhanced animal welfare. Contributed to the field of wildlife management by providing means for the humane control of animal populations.

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Karl Unterkircher

Italian mountaineer and climber
Born
August 27th, 1970 54 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 38 years old

Born in 1970, this mountaineer specialized in high-altitude climbs. Acclaimed for summiting various challenging peaks, he gained recognition for the first ascent of several routes in the Himalayas and Karakoram. He was part of various expeditions and made significant contributions to alpine climbing techniques. Tragically, an ascent in 2008 resulted in his disappearance during a climb in Pakistan.

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Fred Sinowatz

Austrian politician, 19th Chancellor
Born
February 5th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 79 years old

Served as Chancellor of Austria from 1983 to 1986. Played a significant role in the Austrian People's Party. Participated in European politics, focusing on economic and social policies. Took part in the establishment of the European Union's Single Market.

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Ed Brinkman

Baseball player and coach
Born
December 8th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 67 years old

Played Major League Baseball as a shortstop and later transitioned to coaching. Played for the Detroit Tigers from 1964 to 1970 and for the Washington Senators from 1970 to 1972. Contributed to the development of players as a coach in various organizations after retirement. Also served as a manager in the minor leagues.

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Alfonso López Trujillo

Colombian cardinal and church leader
Born
November 8th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 73 years old

Born in Colombia, served as cardinal and was appointed archbishop of Medellín. Held significant positions within the Catholic Church including involvement in the Vatican's Congregation for the Clergy. His work often focused on social issues and church reform. Participated in various ecumenical dialogues and contributed to discussions on ethics and morality within the church. Advocated for peace and justice in Colombia during a time of conflict. His tenure included leadership roles in important church organizations.

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