What Happened This Year 2008

People Who Died in 2008

Don Gutteridge

Baseball player and manager, St. Louis Browns
Born
June 19th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 96 years old

Born in 1912, a professional baseball player and manager contributed to Major League Baseball primarily as an infielder. Played for the St. Louis Browns and outlined a significant career in the league. Transitioned into a managerial role after his playing career, leading teams in both Major League Baseball and the minor leagues.

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Cor Brom

Dutch footballer and manager, FC Utrecht
Born
August 27th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 76 years old

Player and manager in Dutch football. Played primarily for FC Utrecht in the 1950s and 1960s, making significant contributions to the team. Transitioned into a managerial role after retirement, leading FC Utrecht as head coach. Known for strategic development of the team and fostering local talent during the coaching tenure.

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Dorothy Vaughan

Mathematician and NASA Computers leader
Born
September 20th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 98 years old

A mathematician who contributed to the United States' efforts in aeronautics and space exploration. Worked at NASA's Langley Research Center, becoming the first Black supervisor there. Specialized in programming and the use of computers in mathematics, particularly during the space race. Played a significant role in utilizing computer technology for calculations that supported various NASA missions.

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Hannah Frank

Scottish sculptor and illustrator
Born
August 23rd, 1908 116 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 100 years old

A Scottish sculptor and illustrator who created both public and private artworks. Frank's work often reflected themes from mythology and literature, showcasing a blend of traditional techniques and modern sensibilities. The artist gained recognition for sculptural pieces that included both figurative and abstract forms. In addition to sculpture, illustrations also formed an integral part of the artistic output, characterized by intricate designs and a unique personal style.

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Judy Cassab

Austrian-Australian painter
Born
August 15th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 88 years old

Born in Austria, a painter migrated to Australia in 1951, where her artistic career flourished. Cassab specialized in portraiture, capturing prominent figures in Australian society. She exhibited her works extensively, including at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Throughout her career, she received numerous accolades and awards for her contributions to the arts, including the Order of Australia. Her work is notable for its vibrant colors and emotional depth, with a strong focus on the human form and expression.

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Joseph M. Juran

Quality management pioneer and author
Born
December 24th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 104 years old

An engineer and businessman contributed significantly to the field of quality management. Developed the Juran Trilogy, which encompasses quality planning, quality control, and quality improvement. Authored several influential books including 'Quality Control Handbook' which became essential reading for quality professionals. Played a critical role in promoting quality management principles across industries and institutions worldwide. Delivered seminars and training programs that educated many on the importance of quality in production and service industries.

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Forrest J Ackerman

American author and science fiction editor
Born
November 24th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 92 years old

Started a career in 1930s contributing to science fiction magazines. Edited 'Weird Tales' and 'Famous Monsters of Filmland', which popularized the horror genre in film. Authored numerous science fiction books and anthologies. Active in fandom, promoting science fiction culture through conventions and speeches. His collection of memorabilia became one of the largest in the genre, showcasing historical significance and influence within science fiction.

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Rajko Mitić

Serbian footballer and coach
Born
November 19th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 86 years old

This individual played as a forward and is recognized for a long career with Red Star Belgrade. Mitić was part of the team that won multiple Yugoslav championships and achieved European glory by winning the 1969 European Cup. Transitioning to coaching, he managed several teams including the Yugoslav national team. His contributions to football have been influential in Serbian sports.

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John McHale

Baseball player and manager in MLB
Born
September 21st, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 87 years old

Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball for teams including the Chicago Cubs and the Philadelphia Phillies. Transitioned into a managerial role, leading teams such as the Detroit Tigers and the New York Mets. Managed the Tigers to a World Series championship in 1968. Served as the general manager for the Expos and contributed to the growth of baseball in Montreal during the team's early years. His career spanned several decades and included both playing and coaching roles within the sport.

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