What Happened This Year 2010

People Who Died in 2010

Loris Kessel

Swiss racing driver and team owner
Born
April 1st, 1950 74 years ago
Died
May 15th, 2010 14 years ago — 60 years old

A significant figure in motorsport, contributed to both driving and team ownership. Competed in Formula One during the 1970s, participating in various Grand Prix events. Transitioned into team management, founding Kessel Racing which participated in endurance racing and sports car events. Notable for achievements in both driving and managing within the racing community.

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Hank Jones

American jazz pianist and composer
Born
July 31st, 1918 106 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2010 14 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent jazz pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the jazz genre. Worked as a bandleader and collaborated with various notable musicians throughout a long career in music. Recorded extensively and performed with prominent artists including Ella Fitzgerald and Dizzy Gillespie. Gained recognition for improvisational skills and style in both trio and big band formats. Received several awards for contributions to jazz, including a Grammy Award.

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Ronnie James Dio

Heavy metal singer and songwriter
Born
July 10th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2010 14 years ago — 67 years old

One of the prominent figures in heavy metal music, this artist contributed significantly to the genre through powerful vocals and innovative songwriting. Starting a career in the 1960s, played with bands such as Elf, Rainbow, Black Sabbath, and formed Dio. The debut album from Dio, 'Holy Diver,' released in 1983, achieved significant commercial success and solidified a legacy within the heavy metal community. This artist's influence extended beyond music, contributing to the culture of heavy metal through distinctive stage presence and lyrical themes.

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Walasse Ting

Painter and poet, known for vibrant works
Born
October 13th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2010 14 years ago — 80 years old

Born in China in 1929, a painter and poet relocated to the United States, where a successful career unfolded. Known for colorful works that reflect elements of both Eastern and Western influences. His painting style integrated bright colors and bold strokes, capturing the essence of contemporary art. Contributions comprised not only visual art but also poetry, showcasing a unique blend of imagery and text. Achievements included numerous exhibitions across the United States and Europe, along with a prominent presence in the New York art scene during the mid-20th century. In later years, continued to create art until death in 2010.

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Yvonne Loriod

French pianist and composer
Born
January 20th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2010 14 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent pianist and composer, contributions included significant works in contemporary classical music. Loriod was celebrated for interpretations of works by her husband, composer Olivier Messiaen. She played a vital role in presenting many of his compositions and recognized the need for expanded performance techniques. Loriod also contributed to piano repertoire, composing original works that are performed by pianists worldwide. Affiliation with the Paris Conservatory further cemented her influence in the music education field.

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Martin Gardner

Mathematician and author of 'Mathematical Games'
Born
October 21st, 1914 110 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 2010 14 years ago — 95 years old

A mathematician and author contributed significantly to popular mathematics through writings in magazines and books. Garnered attention for the 'Mathematical Games' column in Scientific American, which ran for 25 years, exploring recreational mathematics and puzzles. Authored over 70 books covering mathematics, philosophy, and magic, spreading knowledge of mathematical concepts to a broad audience. Engaged with the scientific community and participated in various mathematical organizations, achieving respect among peers for creativity and insight in mathematical thinking.

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José Lima

Baseball pitcher and All-Star player
Born
September 30th, 1972 52 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 2010 14 years ago — 37 years old

A professional baseball pitcher from the Dominican Republic, made significant contributions to Major League Baseball (MLB). Played for teams including the Detroit Tigers, Houston Astros, and Kansas City Royals from 1994 to 2006. Achieved notable success during the 1999 season as a member of the Houston Astros, earning an All-Star selection. Renowned for a charismatic personality and distinctive pitching style, became a beloved figure in the game. After retiring from baseball, continued to engage with fans and inspire future generations.

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Simon Monjack

Director, producer, screenwriter
Born
1970 55 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 2010 14 years ago — 40 years old

Worked primarily in the film industry as a director, producer, and screenwriter. Directed the film 'Legacy', which garnered attention in independent cinema. Also produced 'The Devil's Carnival', a musical horror film that developed a cult following. Wrote and directed projects that showcased a blend of genres, contributing to the British film scene. His work often involved collaborations with other creatives in the industry.

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Anneliese Rothenberger

German soprano and actress in opera
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
May 24th, 2010 14 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent soprano and actress, achieved recognition in the operatic realm during the mid-20th century. Gained acclaim for performances in operas such as 'Die Entführung aus dem Serail' and 'The Magic Flute'. Also recognized for roles in musical theater and various operatic concerts across Europe. In addition to singing, engaged in acting and contributed to the arts through various performances. Recorded a number of operatic works, further disseminating a strong vocal tradition. Her contributions to opera and the performing arts remain notable.

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