What Happened This Year 2008

People Who Died in 2008

Kenneth Parnell

American sex offender and abductor
Born
September 26th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 77 years old

Engaged in criminal activities primarily as a sex offender. Gained notoriety for the abduction of Steven Stayner in 1972, a case that drew national attention. Convicted in 1993 for attempting to abduct another child, which led to a lengthy prison sentence. Frequently discussed in the context of child abduction and exploitation cases.

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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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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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Peter Rühmkorf

German writer and poet
Born
October 25th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 79 years old

Authored numerous poetry collections and novels, contributing significantly to contemporary German literature. Notable works include 'Der Prominente' and 'Die Flügel der Nacht', which exhibit a blending of personal and political themes. Awarded prestigious literary honors, including the William-Lehmann-Preis and the Friedrich Hölderlin Prize for exemplifying literary excellence. His writing often reflected the complexities of post-war Germany and explored existential themes, making him a prominent figure in the literary landscape.

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David Topliss

Rugby league player and coach
Born
December 29th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 59 years old

A former rugby league player and coach, this individual played primarily as a stand-off or halfback. Career spanned the late 1960s through the early 1980s, with a notable tenure at clubs including Wakefield Trinity and Castleford. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, contributing to the development of future players and teams in the sport. Led various teams in different competitive settings, influencing the strategic approach of the game.

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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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Ivo Pukanić

Croatian journalist and media executive
Born
January 21st, 1961 64 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 47 years old

A prominent Croatian journalist and media executive, significant contributions included founding the influential media company Nacional. Pukanić focused on investigative journalism, covering numerous political and social issues in Croatia. Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Pukanić's work attracted both recognition and controversy, often tackling sensitive subjects that sparked public debate. His career was marked by a commitment to uncovering truths behind various topics impacting Croatian society. In 2008, he was tragically killed in a bombing, which brought attention to the dangers faced by journalists in the region.

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John Brereton Barlow

Cardiologist and physician in South Africa
Born
October 24th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent cardiologist and physician, contributed significantly to the field of cardiology in South Africa. Served as a professor and head of the cardiology department at a leading medical institution. Developed important techniques and methods for diagnosing and treating heart disease. Recognized for contributions to medical research, particularly in the areas of cardiac health and interventions.

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Sören Nordin

Harness Racer and Trainer in Sweden
Born
September 5th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent figure in harness racing, significant contributions made to the sport as both a racer and a trainer. Competed in multiple prestigious events and achieved considerable success over a long career. Developed a reputation for training successful horses and participating in challenging races, showcasing expertise and dedication.

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