What Happened This Year 2012

People Who Died in 2012

Kyle Bennett

BMX rider and multiple champion
Born
September 25th, 1979 45 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 33 years old

A professional BMX rider excelled in racing and freestyle events. Competed in numerous contests and championships throughout a career that began in the late 1990s. Achieved significant success at the national and international levels, contributing to the sport's popularity. Recognized as a key figure in BMX, he participated in various high-profile events, showcasing exceptional skills and talent.

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Lee Dorman

American bass player with Iron Butterfly
Born
September 15th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent bass player, contributed to the band Iron Butterfly during the late 1960s. Played a significant role in the development of the psychedelic rock genre with the iconic song 'In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida.' Participated in the music scene of the era and influenced future musicians with his innovative style. In addition to work with Iron Butterfly, collaborated with various artists across different projects, showcasing versatility in musical performance.

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William Standish Knowles

Nobel Prize-winning chemist
Born
June 1st, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of asymmetric synthesis. Won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2001 for work on chiral catalysts. Pioneered methods that enabled the production of pharmaceuticals more efficiently and with fewer side effects. Held various academic positions and continued to advance chemical research throughout a long career.

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Wilson Whineray

Rugby union player, All Blacks captain
Born
July 10th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 77 years old

A rugby union player from New Zealand, achieved notable success as the captain of the All Blacks during the 1960s. Played primarily as a prop, featuring in 32 test matches for the national team. His leadership was pivotal during a time of significant competition in international rugby. In addition to his sports career, transitioned into business and served as a prominent businessman post-retirement.

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Frances Spence

Computer Programmer and COBOL Contributor
Born
March 2nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent figure in computer programming, contributed significantly to the development of the COBOL programming language. Worked as a programmer for the government and later for major companies, helping shape software applications that are foundational in business computing. Spence's work in the 1950s and 1960s laid the groundwork for modern programming practices and has influenced generations of programmers. Her expertise in COBOL established her as a pioneer in the field of software engineering.

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Bob Myrick

Professional baseball player
Born
October 1st, 1952 72 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 60 years old

Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1976 to 1982. Played for the New York Yankees and the Atlanta Braves. Contributed to teams during a period of transition in baseball with a focus on both starting and relief pitching. Recorded several notable performances throughout his career, developing a reputation for strong pitching skills.

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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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Evelyn Bryan Johnson

American Colonel and Aviator
Born
November 4th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 103 years old

A distinguished figure in aviation, served as a colonel in the American Civil Air Patrol. Obtained more than 35,000 flight hours, holding the record for the most flight hours logged by a female pilot at the time. Contributed significantly to the establishment of the Civil Air Patrol and its operational capabilities. Recognized for extensive work in aviation safety and pilot training.

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Shane McEntee

Irish politician and government minister
Born
December 19th, 1956 68 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 56 years old

Served as a Member of the Irish Parliament and held the position of Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Engaged in legislative work related to agricultural policies and food security. Played a role in enhancing Ireland's agricultural sector through various initiatives and programs, advocating for farmers' interests.

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