What Happened This Year 2008

People Who Died in 2008

Davey Graham

Guitarist and songwriter, Folk Roots
Born
November 26th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 68 years old

Influenced the development of folk music and acoustic guitar styles during the 1960s. Contributed to the British folk scene and known for pioneering the use of alternate tunings. Released several albums that showcased guitar techniques and songwriting abilities, blending elements of folk, blues, and jazz. Collaborated with various artists and maintained a significant presence in live performances throughout his career.

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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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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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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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Daniel Charles

French musicologist and philosopher
Born
November 27th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed significantly to musicology and philosophy, exploring the relationship between music and culture. Focused on the works and theories of various composers and their impact on music as an art form. Engaged in interdisciplinary studies that bridged music with other cultural expressions. Authored numerous publications that influenced the understanding of music history and aesthetics.

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Jim McKay

Sportscaster and journalist for ABC Sports
Born
September 24th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent sportscaster and journalist, this individual became a leading voice in American sports broadcasting. He joined ABC Sports in the 1950s and became a pivotal figure in covering major sporting events. His work included hosting the prestigious 'Wide World of Sports,' which introduced various sports to a nationwide audience. Reporting on the 1972 Munich Olympics tragedy marked a significant moment in his career, showcasing his ability to blend sports and journalism under exceptional circumstances. He received numerous accolades for his contributions to sports media, including the National Sportscaster of the Year award multiple times and induction into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame.

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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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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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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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