What Happened This Year 2012

People Who Died in 2012

Wilhelmus Demarteau

Dutch Roman Catholic prelate
Born
January 24th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 95 years old

Ordained as a priest in 1949 and served in various positions within the Roman Catholic Church. Became the auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Utrecht in 1973, contributing to the spiritual guidance and administration of the church. His focus included pastoral care and the promotion of ecclesiastical education. Participated actively in regional and national discussions concerning the Catholic Church's role in Dutch society. Retired in 1992 and continued to support church initiatives until passing.

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Junior Seau

American football linebacker and Hall of Famer
Born
January 19th, 1969 56 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 43 years old

Played as a linebacker in the National Football League for 20 seasons. Spent the majority of career with the San Diego Chargers after being drafted in 1990. Earned Pro Bowl selections for 12 consecutive years. Played in Super Bowl XXIX with the Chargers. Also had stints with the Miami Dolphins and New England Patriots. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015.

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Pope Shenouda III of Alexandria

Coptic Pope, led the Coptic Church
Born
August 3rd, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the Coptic Pope from 1971 until 2012, overseeing the spiritual needs of the Coptic Orthodox Church. Played a key role in interfaith dialogues, building relationships with various Christian denominations and other religions. Authored numerous theological writings and addressed contemporary issues facing the Coptic community. During the tenure, he dealt with significant events affecting Christians in Egypt. Led the church through times of political changes, promoting peace and religious tolerance.

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Jean Taittinger

French politician, Minister of Justice
Born
January 25th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a prominent French politician and held the position of Minister of Justice. Played a significant role in the political landscape of France during the late 20th century, particularly in matters concerning justice and legal reforms. Engaged in various governmental initiatives aimed at improving the legal system and enhancing public trust in judicial processes. Participated in legislative discussions and was involved in key reforms throughout his tenure.

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Arthur Jensen

Psychologist known for intelligence research
Born
August 24th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 89 years old

An American psychologist and academic who focused on individual differences in intelligence, Jensen contributed significantly to the understanding of IQ and its implications. His research often sparked debate regarding the heritability of intelligence and racial differences in cognitive ability. Jensen authored several influential papers and books, including "How Much Can We Boost IQ and Scholastic Achievement?" which presented the argument for genetic influences on intelligence. He served as a professor at the University of California, Berkeley, where much of his work was conducted.

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Bruno Giacometti

Swiss architect, designed Hallenstadion
Born
August 24th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 105 years old

An architect based in Switzerland, focused on modernist designs. Designed the Hallenstadion in Zurich, a prominent indoor arena known for hosting various events, including sports and concerts. Contributed to the architectural landscape of Switzerland with a commitment to integrating functionality and style in public spaces. Worked on several other notable projects throughout a career spanning several decades.

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François Migault

Race car driver and endurance racer
Born
December 4th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 68 years old

Competed in various racing championships during the 1960s and 1970s. Participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans multiple times, achieving notable success in endurance racing. Served as a test driver for several prominent teams and made significant contributions to car development. Had a long association with the French automotive racing scene, earning a reputation for versatility and performance on the track.

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Lateef Adegbite

Nigerian lawyer and politician
Born
March 20th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent figure in Nigeria's legal and political landscape, this individual played a significant role in shaping legal policies and governance. As a founding member of the Nigerian Bar Association, contributed to the establishment of key legal frameworks. Served as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State, advocating for legal reforms. Engaged in various political endeavors, focusing on the promotion of justice and equity. Also involved in community development and served in various capacities within numerous legal and civic organizations.

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Natalya Kustinskaya

Soviet actress in 'The Cranes Are Flying'
Born
April 5th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1938, Kustinskaya was a prominent Soviet actress who gained recognition for her role in the film 'The Cranes Are Flying', which won the Palme d'Or at the 1958 Cannes Film Festival. Throughout her career, she appeared in a variety of Soviet films and television productions. Kustinskaya's performances were often characterized by emotional depth and realism, contributing significantly to the Soviet cinema landscape during her active years. She continued to work in the industry until the late 1990s, leaving behind a legacy of influential roles in classic Soviet films.

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