What Happened This Year 2012

People Who Died in 2012

Steve Van Buren

Football player, two-time NFL champion
Born
December 28th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2012 14 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent football player, played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL) during the 1940s and early 1950s. Spent the entirety of professional career with the Philadelphia Eagles from 1944 to 1951. Achieved significant success, leading the league in rushing yards multiple times. Contributed to the Eagles' two NFL championships in 1948 and 1949. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1965.

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Gladys O'Connor

English-Canadian actress in film and TV
Born
November 28th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
2012 14 years ago — 109 years old

Born in England but later moved to Canada, she pursued a career in acting, appearing in various films and television shows. Her work spanned several decades, contributing to productions that showcased her talent and versatility. Throughout her career, she gained recognition for her performances in both drama and comedy, earning a devoted audience.

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Angelo Castro Jr.

Filipino actor and journalist
Born
March 6th, 1945 81 years ago
Died
2012 14 years ago — 67 years old

An actor and journalist who contributed significantly to Philippine media. Worked as a news anchor for ABS-CBN and hosted the influential television program 'The World Tonight.' Also recognized for acting roles in various films and television dramas. Contributed to the development of news broadcasting in the country and played a crucial role during the Martial Law period in the Philippines.

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Buzz Potamkin

Director and producer of animated films
Born
November 22nd, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2012 14 years ago — 67 years old

Founded Buzzco Associates, a production company focused on animation. Directed and produced numerous animated shorts and commercials, contributing to the field of animation with innovative techniques. Involved in various projects that received critical attention and showcased unique storytelling through animation.

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Hal Trosky Jr.

Baseball player with the Cleveland Indians
Born
September 29th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2012 14 years ago — 76 years old

Played Major League Baseball as a first baseman primarily for the Cleveland Indians. Debuted in 1955 and achieved a .263 batting average over his career. Played in an era that included the expansion of the American League. Contributed to the team over multiple seasons until retirement in the early 1960s. His position and performance contributed to the team's efforts during his tenure.

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Kevin O'Donnell Jr.

American author, wrote 'The Man Who Was'
Born
November 29th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
2012 14 years ago — 62 years old

An author contributed significantly to children's literature, particularly in the genre of fantasy and science fiction. Published multiple works that engaged young readers and fostered imagination. The writing style employed elements of adventure and creativity to captivate audiences. Also worked as an editor, shaping narratives for various publications. Involved in educational initiatives aiming to promote literacy among children. The body of work includes several acclaimed titles, particularly 'The Man Who Was,' which stands out for its imaginative storytelling and unique characters.

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Peter Bergman

Comedian, actor in soap operas
Born
November 29th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2012 14 years ago — 73 years old

An American comedian, actor, and screenwriter. Significant contributions to television include roles in daytime soap operas. Best recognized for portraying Jack Abbott on "The Young and the Restless" since 1989, contributing to the series' long-running success. Also part of the comedic ensemble in the show "The Bold and the Beautiful."

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Lisa Della Casa

Swiss soprano and actress
Born
February 2nd, 1919 107 years ago
Died
2012 14 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1919, this soprano and actress achieved acclaim in the world of opera and theater. Training in her native Switzerland paved the way for a prominent career. Performance highlights included roles in operas such as 'The Marriage of Figaro' and 'Der Rosenkavalier'. Renowned for her interpretations of Mozart and Richard Strauss, she performed at prestigious venues including the Vienna State Opera and La Scala. Her versatility extended to the concert stage, where she garnered attention for her vocal artistry. Della Casa also made notable contributions to recordings, leaving behind a legacy of operatic performances. She passed away in 2012, remembered for her exceptional talent.

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Guy Dodson

Biochemist and academic researcher
Born
January 13th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
2012 14 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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