What Happened This Year 2012

People Who Died in 2012

Clare Fischer

American pianist and composer
Born
October 22nd, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 84 years old

Contributed significantly to jazz music as a pianist, composer, and arranger. Developed a unique style blending classical influences with jazz. Worked with prominent artists including Prince, and arranged for various big bands. Composed various pieces and choral works, which incorporated innovative harmonies. Fischer's work had a lasting influence on the jazz genre.

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Guy Dodson

Biochemist and academic researcher
Born
January 13th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed to the field of biochemistry with a focus on enzyme mechanisms. Worked as a professor at the University of Oxford, where research centered on understanding enzymes and their functions. Published numerous papers in peer-reviewed journals and collaborated with various institutions worldwide. Played a significant role in mentoring the next generation of scientists through academic programs and conferences.

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Gerrit Ybema

Dutch civil servant and politician
Born
October 29th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 67 years old

A civil servant and politician with a career in Dutch politics. Served as a member of the House of Representatives and was affiliated with the People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD). Held various positions within the government throughout the years, contributing to policy-making and public administration. Focused on economic and social issues, influencing legislation during tenure. Played a significant role in the VVD's direction in the late 20th century, impacting Dutch political landscape.

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Sergio Livingstone

Footballer and journalist from Chile
Born
March 26th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 92 years old

Played as a goalkeeper for Universidad de Chile and the Chile national team. Participated in the 1950 FIFA World Cup. Transitioned to journalism after retiring from football, becoming a well-respected sports commentator and writer. Contributed to various publications and television programs, gaining recognition for insightful analysis about the sport.

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Pat Renella

Actor in 'The Streets of San Francisco'
Born
March 24th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 83 years old

An Italian-American actor, prominent during the late 20th century, gained recognition through various television and film roles. Main association includes the long-running television series 'The Streets of San Francisco'. Renella portrayed characters that often showcased his versatility in dramatic storytelling. His career spanned several decades during which he also took part in other television shows and films, contributing to the entertainment industry with memorable performances.

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Roger Boisjoly

Aerodynamicist and engineer, Challenger disaster
Born
April 25th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 74 years old

An aerodynamicist and engineer focused on rocket propulsion and safety concerns. Worked at Morton Thiokol where contributions to the Space Shuttle program occurred, particularly regarding the Challenger disaster. Voiced concerns about the O-rings used in the solid rocket boosters prior to the Challenger launch, warning that cold temperatures could compromise their integrity. After the disaster, provided testimony before the Rogers Commission to discuss the engineering decisions and safety issues related to the launch, emphasizing the need for better safety practices in aerospace engineering.

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Yves Niaré

French shot putter and Olympian
Born
July 20th, 1977 48 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 35 years old

Competed in shot put at a professional level with significant achievements in international athletics. Participated in the 2000 Sydney Olympics representing France. Won multiple medals at the European Athletics Championships, marking a notable presence in the sport throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s. Niaré's career includes personal best throws that placed him among the top athletes in shot put during his competitive years.

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John Madin

English architect with iconic designs
Born
March 23rd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 88 years old

An architect recognized for modernist buildings, contributed significantly to Birmingham's cityscape during the 1960s and 1970s. Notable works include the Birmingham Central Library and the Birmingham College of Art. Played a vital role in the architectural character of the city, integrating functionality with modern design principles. Received multiple awards for contributions to architecture, reflecting innovative approaches to public and educational buildings.

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Víctor Cabedo

Spanish cyclist and professional racer
Born
June 15th, 1989 36 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 23 years old

Competed as a professional road cyclist. Achieved recognition in major cycling events. Participated in the 2010 Vuelta a España. Began cycling at a young age and progressed through various competitive ranks in Spain.

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