What Happened This Year 2012

People Who Died in 2012

Big Walter Price

Singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
August 2nd, 1914 110 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 98 years old

A prominent figure in the blues genre, Walter Price contributed significantly through performances and recordings. He played piano and provided vocals, actively participating in the Chicago blues scene during the mid-20th century. Price recorded a number of influential tracks, showcasing his talents and helping to shape the sound of contemporary blues. His work spanned several decades, leaving a mark on the music landscape and influencing future generations of musicians.

Continue Reading

Beano Cook

Sportscaster and college football journalist
Born
September 1st, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 81 years old

Became a prominent figure in college football commentary and journalism. Worked as a sportscaster for various networks, including ESPN, where gained recognition for insightful analysis and entertaining anecdotes. Developed a distinct style that resonated with both fans and players alike. Contributed to sports journalism through writings in notable publications, influencing how college football was covered in the media.

Continue Reading

János Rózsás

Hungarian author and playwright
Born
August 6th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 86 years old

Born in Hungary in 1926, contributed significantly to literature as an author and playwright. Wrote various novels and plays that explored themes of society and human experience. Gained prominence for works that reflect the complexities of life in Hungary during significant historical events. His literary legacy includes both acclaimed novels and influential theatrical productions, establishing a lasting presence in Hungarian culture.

Continue Reading

Deborah Raffin

American actress, starred in 'The World According to Garp'
Born
March 13th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 59 years old

An actress with a career spanning several decades, contributed to television and film with significant roles. Gained recognition for performances in projects that highlighted emotional depth and character complexity. Appeared in the film 'The World According to Garp' and the television series 'Rich Man, Poor Man'. Also served as an executive producer and was involved in various charitable efforts throughout life.

Continue Reading

Jon Lord

Keyboard player for Deep Purple
Born
June 9th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 71 years old

A British musician, played keyboard for the rock band Deep Purple. Co-founded the band in 1968, contributing to its distinctive sound with classical influences. Composed the iconic track 'Smoke on the Water', which became a defining song of rock music. Also acted as a key player in the formation of the supergroup Whitesnake. Besides performing, Lord composed various classical works, blending rock and orchestral music. His contributions to music extended beyond performance, as he was also involved in production and songwriting.

Continue Reading

Nicholas C. Handy

Chemist and academic in England
Born
June 17th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 71 years old

Specialized in theoretical and computational chemistry, contributing significantly to the field. Served as a professor and held various academic positions at institutions including the University of East Anglia. Conducted research that advanced the understanding of chemical processes and reaction mechanisms. Published numerous papers and authored influential textbooks that have been widely used in chemistry education.

Continue Reading

Eiko Ishioka

Art director and graphic designer for films
Born
July 12th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 74 years old

An acclaimed art director and graphic designer with a significant impact on film aesthetics. Ishioka studied at the Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music, later moving to New York City to expand creativity in production design. Notable works include the visually striking costumes for the film 'Bram Stoker's Dracula', which earned an Academy Award for Best Costume Design. In addition, Ishioka contributed to other films such as 'The Cell' and 'Hannibal', showcasing a unique blend of traditional Japanese motifs with contemporary design techniques. Her work spanned various fields, combining design for theater, advertising, and film, demonstrating versatility and creativity throughout her career.

Continue Reading

Barry Unsworth

English-Italian author and academic
Born
August 10th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 82 years old

An author and academic, contributed significantly to literature through a range of novels that often explore themes of historical and social significance. Achieved recognition for works that delve into the complexities of human experience, and the impact of history on modern life. Received prestigious accolades, including the Booker Prize in 1992 for the novel 'Sacred Hunger', which examines the transatlantic slave trade and its ramifications. His writing includes both fiction and historical narratives that reflect deep research and engagement with historical contexts.

Continue Reading

Isuzu Yamada

Japanese actress in film and theater
Born
February 5th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 95 years old

An actress prominent in Japanese cinema, her career began in the early 1930s and extended into the 2000s. Notably starred in Akira Kurosawa's films, particularly 'Throne of Blood' and 'The Lower Depths'. Participated in numerous theatrical performances, showcasing versatile acting skills. Featured in a variety of genres across film and stage, leaving a significant mark in Japan's entertainment landscape.

Continue Reading