What Happened This Year 2013

People Who Died in 2013

Frederic Franklin

Ballet dancer and director, Ballet Russe
Born
June 13th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 99 years old

Born in England in 1914, a prominent ballet dancer and director achieved significant recognition in the world of ballet. Trained at the Royal Ballet School, began a distinguished career with Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. Later transitioned to the United States, contributing to the growth of ballet on Broadway. Directed several productions and performed in notable works such as 'Swan Lake' and 'The Nutcracker'. Served as a mentor to young dancers and left behind a legacy in ballet education and performance.

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Dezső Gyarmati

Hungarian water polo player and coach
Born
October 23rd, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent figure in water polo, achieved significant success as both a player and coach. Competed in multiple Olympic Games, earning three gold medals and one silver medal. Transitioned to coaching and led teams to various national and international honors, contributing to the development of the sport in Hungary.

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Rochus Misch

German SS officer and bodyguard
Born
July 29th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 96 years old

Born in 1917, served as a bodyguard for Adolf Hitler during World War II. Assigned to the Führerbunker in Berlin, played a key role in the security detail. Experienced the final days of the Third Reich and witnessed numerous significant historical events. After the war, captured by Soviet forces and later became a successful entrepreneur. His post-war life included a focus on sharing personal experiences of service during the Nazi regime, providing insight into the inner workings of the regime's leadership.

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Ray Harryhausen

Animator and producer of stop-motion films
Born
June 29th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 93 years old

Pioneered stop-motion animation techniques that revolutionized visual effects in cinema. Created iconic creatures and characters for films such as 'Jason and the Argonauts', 'The 7th Voyage of Sinbad', and 'Clash of the Titans'. Contributed to the development of animated storytelling, influencing countless filmmakers and animators. Received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

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Louise Currie

American actress in classic horror films
Born
April 7th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 100 years old

An actress appeared in several films from the 1940s to the 1950s, specializing in the horror genre. Roles included prominent parts in movies such as 'The Ghost of Frankenstein' and 'The Phantom of 42nd Street'. Worked extensively with Monogram Pictures and participated in numerous theatrical productions.

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Goldie Harvey

Nigerian singer-songwriter and musician
Born
October 23rd, 1983 41 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 30 years old

A notable Nigerian singer-songwriter gained recognition for unique music style fusing pop and traditional African sounds. Released debut album 'Gold' in 2010, which included hit singles that enjoyed popularity across Nigeria and beyond. Participated in the reality show 'Celebrity Big Brother Africa' in 2013, showcasing talent and personality to a broader audience. Harvey's contributions to the Nigerian music scene included performances at various festivals and events, establishing a strong fan base.

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Ovadia Yosef

Rabbi and scholar, Chief Rabbi of Israel
Born
September 24th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 93 years old

An Iraqi-Israeli rabbi and scholar served as the Chief Rabbi of Israel from 1973 to 1983. Authored numerous works on Jewish law and philosophy, contributing significantly to contemporary Halakha. Established the Shas political party, which aimed at representing the interests of Sephardic and Mizrahi Jews in Israeli politics. Influenced religious and political life in Israel during his tenure.

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Hazel Hawke

Australian social worker and pianist
Born
July 20th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 84 years old

Significant contributions made in social work and music. Served as the spouse of the 23rd Prime Minister of Australia, managing various community initiatives. Participated in charitable organizations and worked towards mental health awareness. Demonstrated skill as a pianist, engaging in performances that highlighted classical music. Advocated for social issues related to mental wellness and education throughout career.

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Zao Wou-Ki

Painter renowned for abstract expressionism
Born
February 1st, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1920, this Chinese-French painter became a significant figure in the art world, particularly recognized for combining Eastern and Western artistic traditions. After moving to Paris in 1948, developed a unique style that incorporated calligraphic elements with abstract expressionism. The works displayed a strong connection to nature, often drawing inspiration from landscapes and music. Achieved acclaim in the 1960s, with exhibitions in prestigious galleries across the world. His contributions elevated the profile of Chinese artists in the Western art scene, and his work reflected the dialogue between cultures, ultimately culminating in a lasting legacy in modern art.

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