What Happened This Year 2012

People Who Died in 2012

Miljan Miljanić

Football manager and player
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2012 13 years ago — 82 years old

Played as a professional footballer in the 1950s and 1960s, primarily for the club Partizan Belgrade. Transitioned to management, leading various teams in Yugoslavia and abroad. Managed the Yugoslav national team during the 1974 FIFA World Cup. Developed a reputation for tactical acumen and player development.

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Guido Dessauer

German physicist and engineer
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2012 13 years ago — 97 years old

Contributions included work in electromagnetic theory and engineering. Developed designs for advanced optical systems. Made advancements in high-frequency technology and microwave engineering. Published numerous research papers in the field of physics and engineering. Worked extensively in academia and industry, particularly in enhancing communication technologies.

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Arfa Karim

Youngest Microsoft Certified Professional
Born
February 2nd, 1995 30 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 16 years old

Achieved distinction as the youngest Microsoft Certified Professional at the age of nine in 2004. Showcased exceptional talent in computer science and technology from a young age. Recognized globally for her contributions to the field of information technology and award-winning projects. Endeavored to inspire young people in Pakistan and beyond to pursue careers in technology.

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Txillardegi

Spanish linguist and politician
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent figure in the Basque independence movement, this individual contributed significantly to Basque linguistics and politics. In the 1960s, emphasis was placed on the development of the modern Basque language, known as Euskara, alongside efforts to promote its usage in education and media. Political activity included involvement in the Basque Nationalist Party and later forming the political party Herri Batasuna, advocating for Basque autonomy and nationalism.

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Dan Evins

American businessman and Cracker Barrel founder
Born
October 11th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 76 years old

Founded Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in 1969, establishing a chain known for its Southern country-style decor and comfort food. Aimed to provide a place for travelers to enjoy hearty meals and shop for local goods. Expanded the brand significantly, with the first restaurant opening in Lebanon, Tennessee. Led the company through growth phases and influenced American dining culture with consistent branding and customer experience.

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Giampiero Moretti

Race car driver and entrepreneur
Born
March 20th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 71 years old

An Italian entrepreneur and race car driver, made significant contributions to motorsport and automotive innovation. Participated in various racing competitions during the 1960s and 1970s. Founded the Moretti automobile company, which specialized in creating unique race cars. Excelled as a competitor in the Mille Miglia, an iconic endurance race in Italy. Achievements in automotive engineering include designing vehicles that achieved notable success on the racing circuits. His efforts in enhancing performance car technology left a lasting influence in the industry.

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Hulett C. Smith

American politician, 27th Governor of West Virginia
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2012 13 years ago — 94 years old

Served as the 27th Governor of West Virginia from 1969 to 1971. Before holding the governorship, participated in state politics, representing the Democratic Party. Held various roles in local and state government, focusing on education and infrastructure development. Contributed to legislative efforts that shaped the development of the state during the late 20th century.

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Ib Spang Olsen

Danish author and illustrator of children's books
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old

Contributed to children's literature as an author and illustrator. Created numerous picture books that have been translated into multiple languages. His distinctive style combined simple images with engaging narratives that resonated with young readers. Worked on various projects that emphasized children's imagination and creativity. Continued to influence the field of children's literature until death in 2012.

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Ed Derwinski

U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old

Served as an American soldier before entering politics, holding the position of the first Secretary of Veterans Affairs in the United States. Worked to improve services and benefits for veterans during a period of significant reform. Represented Illinois in the House of Representatives from 1983 to 1993, focusing on veterans' issues and military service. Contributed to establishing policies and programs aimed at supporting former service members.

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