What Happened This Year 2010

People Who Died in 2010

Sandy Douglas

Computer scientist and OXO designer
Born
May 21st, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 89 years old

A computer scientist and academic contributed significantly to the field of computing, particularly in game design. Designed the game OXO, one of the earliest known computer games, which was developed for the EDSAC computer at the University of Cambridge. Engaged in research that laid foundational work for future developments in computer science. Also contributed to education and the advancement of computing as a discipline through academic roles and publications.

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Philip Langridge

English tenor and opera performer
Born
December 16th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 71 years old

A celebrated English tenor, this singer gained prominence for performances in opera and concert settings. Distinguished for versatility, performances spanned various venues and repertoire, including roles in operas by Benjamin Britten and Mozart. Regularly collaborated with leading orchestras and renowned conductors, contributing to the classical music scene. Achievements included numerous recordings and participation in prestigious festivals, solidifying a legacy within the operatic community.

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Édouard Carpentier

Professional wrestler and promoter
Born
July 17th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1926 in Canada, a highly influential professional wrestler. Competed in various wrestling promotions throughout the 1950s and 1960s, becoming a prominent figure in the sport. Gained recognition for introducing high-flying techniques to professional wrestling, which would later influence generations of wrestlers. Transitioned into promoting wrestling events and training other wrestlers, contributing significantly to the sport's development in Canada and beyond. Retired from in-ring competition in the 1980s, leaving a lasting legacy in the wrestling community.

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Angelo Poffo

Professional wrestler and promoter
Born
April 10th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 85 years old

Played a significant role in professional wrestling as both a wrestler and promoter. Competed in various wrestling promotions including the World Wrestling Association (WWA) and the American Wrestling Association (AWA). Founded the International Championship Wrestling (ICW) promotion, which contributed to the development of wrestling talent in the 1970s and 1980s. Promoted various events and was involved in training future wrestling stars. His legacy includes contributions to the wrestling industry through promotion and training.

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Marshall Warren Nirenberg

Biochemist, Nobel Prize winner in Physiology
Born
April 10th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent biochemist and geneticist contributed significantly to the field of molecular biology. Achievements include deciphering the genetic code, which laid the groundwork for understanding how sequences of nucleotides correspond to amino acids in protein synthesis. Research during the early 1960s focused on the role of messenger RNA in protein synthesis, demonstrating how genetic information is translated within cells. This milestone in genetics has had lasting implications for biochemistry and genetic research.

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Merlin Olsen

American football player and actor
Born
September 15th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 70 years old

Played as a defensive tackle for the Los Angeles Rams in the NFL from 1962 to 1976. Achieved Pro Bowl selections multiple times and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1982. Transitioned into television after retirement, starring in the series 'Little House on the Prairie' and 'Father Murphy.' Worked as a sportscaster for NBC Sports, providing commentary for NFL games.

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Heda Margolius Kovály

Czech author and translator of memoirs
Born
September 15th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 91 years old

Born in Prague in 1919, this figure experienced significant historical events, including the Holocaust and the Communist regime in Czechoslovakia. Writing autobiographically, her most prominent work, 'Under a Cruel Star', recounts personal experiences during the Nazi occupation and the ensuing repression. After emigrating to the United States in 1948, contributions to literature included translations of Czech literary works. An active participant in the literary community, engaged in discussions about totalitarianism and the human condition. Resided in the U.S. until her death in 2010.

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Frederick C. Weyand

American general during Vietnam War
Born
September 15th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 94 years old

A U.S. Army general, served in key military roles during the Vietnam War. Played a significant part in command operations as the last commanding general of the United States Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV) in 1972. Oversaw the withdrawal of American forces and the transition to South Vietnamese operations. Worked as an officer in the Pacific Theater during World War II, contributing to critical strategies that aided in victory. His leadership further extended to posts in the Army's personnel department, emphasizing military readiness and training.

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Cora Sadosky

Mathematician and academic in Argentina
Born
May 23rd, 1940 84 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 70 years old

Contributed significantly to mathematical education and research. Served as a professor at the University of Buenos Aires and was involved in developing curricula for mathematics at both school and university levels. Actively participated in various mathematical conferences and seminars, promoting the advancement of mathematics in Argentina. Focused on the areas of mathematics education and environmental studies in academic literature.

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