What Happened This Year 2012

People Who Died in 2012

Rashidi Yekini

Nigerian footballer and national team star
Born
October 23rd, 1963 61 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2012 12 years ago — 48 years old

A prominent figure in Nigerian football, Yekini began his professional career in 1981 with Abiola Babes. His prowess on the field became evident when he joined Sporting Lisbon in 1994. Yekini gained international recognition during the 1994 FIFA World Cup, scoring Nigeria's first-ever goal in the tournament against Bulgaria. He also represented Nigeria in multiple African Cup of Nations tournaments, contributing significantly to the team's performance. He played a crucial role in Nigeria's victory in the 1994 African Cup of Nations, helping the team secure the championship title. Yekini's impactful career spanned over two decades, ending in 2001 after a successful stint in various clubs across Europe and Africa.

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Bob Stewart

Television producer and creator
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2012 12 years ago — 92 years old

Founded Stewart Tele Enterprises, a successful television production company. Created and produced prominent television game shows including 'The Price Is Right' and 'Truth or Consequences'. Contributed to the development of other entertainment formats and shows that became staples in American television. Received multiple Emmy Awards throughout the career for excellence in television production.

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Adam Yauch

Rapper and director of Beastie Boys
Born
August 5th, 1964 60 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2012 12 years ago — 47 years old

A prominent figure in hip hop, contributed significantly to the genre as a member of the Beastie Boys. The group released seminal albums including 'Licensed to Ill' and 'Paul's Boutique'. Yauch directed several of their music videos and established a film production company. In 1994, founded the Tibetan Freedom Concert, raising awareness and funds for Tibetan independence. Battled cancer for several years, having a profound influence on music and activism before passing in 2012.

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George Knobel

Football manager and coach
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2012 12 years ago — 90 years old

A football manager and former player, his coaching career included notable tenures at FC Twente and Heracles Almelo. Achievements in the managerial role led teams to significant successes in Dutch football leagues. Developed tactical approaches and team strategies that contributed to the growth of his teams during competitive seasons.

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Carl Johan Bernadotte

Count of Wisborg
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2012 12 years ago — 96 years old

Held the title of Count of Wisborg and was a notable figure in the Swedish royal family. Was the son of Prince Carl, Duke of Västergötland, and the grandson of King Gustav V of Sweden. Engaged in various charitable activities and took part in royal duties. Actively participated in events related to the royal family and contributed to several cultural and social initiatives.

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Aatos Erkko

Finnish journalist and publisher
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2012 12 years ago — 80 years old

Aatos Erkko served as a prominent journalist and publisher in Finland. He played a significant role in the Finnish media landscape, particularly as the publisher of Helsingin Sanomat, one of the largest newspapers in the country. Under his leadership, Helsingin Sanomat maintained its status as a critical source of news and information. In addition to journalism, he was involved in various cultural and educational initiatives, supporting multiple causes that promoted Finnish literature and education.

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James R. Browning

American judge of the Ninth Circuit
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2012 12 years ago — 94 years old

Served as a United States Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals from 1976 until 2012. Earned a law degree from Stanford Law School and worked as a law clerk for Justice William O. Douglas. Also served as a U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California. Played a significant role in important cases impacting civil rights and public policy throughout the years on the bench. Passed away in 2012.

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Dennis E. Fitch

American pilot and aviation expert
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2012 12 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a captain and pilot with remarkable expertise in aviation. Played a crucial role in the successful emergency landing of United Airlines Flight 232 on July 19, 1989, after both engines failed. The incident is widely studied in aviation safety and emergency procedures. Contributed to various safety protocols and training within the aviation industry, focusing on crisis management and crew resource management. Helped to enhance pilot training techniques through experience and practical application in high-stress situations.

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Ampon Tangnoppakul

Thai criminal executed for lese majeste
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2012 12 years ago — 64 years old

Ampon Tangnoppakul was sentenced to death in Thailand for violating the country's lese majeste law. Accused of making derogatory comments about the monarchy through text messages, the case attracted significant attention and raised concerns over freedom of speech in Thailand. Tangnoppakul maintained innocence throughout the trial. The case was one of the most notable instances of the enforcement of lese majeste laws in the country, highlighting the legal ramifications for criticism of the monarchy.

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