What Happened This Year 2010

People Who Died in 2010

Nathan Oliveira

American painter and sculptor
Born
December 19th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 82 years old

A significant figure in American art, this individual contributed as both a painter and sculptor. Work in the Bay Area figurative movement distinguished his career. The style merged abstraction with representational forms, influencing contemporary art. Teaching roles at institutions like Stanford University helped shape future generations of artists. Exhibitions in major galleries showcased a body of work that celebrated human figures and emotion.

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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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Juanita M. Kreps

Economist and U.S. Secretary of Commerce
Born
January 11th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 89 years old

An economist and politician served as the 24th United States Secretary of Commerce from 1977 to 1979 under President Jimmy Carter. This individual was the first woman to hold the position and contributed to various economic policies during the late 1970s. Before serving as Secretary, held academic positions and authored several books on economics, focusing on labor and employment issues. This person also engaged in public service roles, aiming to improve economic opportunities for women and minorities.

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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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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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John Carl Warnecke

Architect with designs for major buildings
Born
February 24th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 91 years old

An American architect played a significant role in designing numerous notable buildings throughout the mid-20th century. Warnecke's work included the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., and he contributed to the design of several university campuses and residential projects. His architectural style often merged modernism with functional design, resulting in structures that served both aesthetic and practical purposes. Additionally, Warnecke served as both an educator and a consultant in various architectural initiatives, influencing a generation of architects. His work has been recognized for its innovative approach to integrating landscapes with urban settings.

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Liz Carpenter

Journalist and author of activism
Born
September 1st, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 90 years old

A journalist and author contributed to political reporting and women's rights advocacy. Worked as a press secretary for Lady Bird Johnson during the Johnson administration. Authored several books, including 'Roses: The Biography of Lady Bird Johnson,' which highlighted the life and contributions of the former First Lady. Advocated for women's issues through various organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union.

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Richard Holbrooke

Diplomat, 22nd U.S. Ambassador to UN
Born
April 24th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 69 years old

Served as the 22nd United States Ambassador to the United Nations, advocating for international cooperation and diplomacy. Played a significant role in negotiating the Dayton Accords, which ended the Bosnian War. Held various positions in government including Assistant Secretary of State for European and Canadian Affairs. Worked in the private sector as a banker and journalist, contributing insight into global issues.

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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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