What Happened This Year 2013

People Who Died in 2013

Chopper Read

Australian criminal and author
Born
November 17th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 59 years old

Author and criminal. Gained notoriety for criminal activities in Australia during the 1970s and 1980s. Authored several books, including 'Chopper: The True Story of an Australian Criminal', detailing experiences in the criminal underworld. Life inspired a film adaptation, 'Chopper', released in 2000, which depicted criminal life as well as personal struggles. Became a controversial figure due to colorful personality and public appearances.

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Goldie Harvey

Nigerian singer-songwriter and musician
Born
October 23rd, 1983 42 years ago
Died
2013 13 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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Nigel Davenport

English actor in 'Chariots of Fire'
Born
May 23rd, 1928 98 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 85 years old

An English actor, prominent in film, television, and theater. Career spanned several decades from the 1950s. Appeared in films such as 'Chariots of Fire' and 'The Hill', showcasing a range of roles from supporting characters to leads. On television, featured in series including 'The Power Game' and 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney'. Received acclaim for theatrical performances, particularly in classics and adaptations.

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Brian Sternberg

Pole Vaulter, 1963 World Champion
Born
June 21st, 1943 83 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent pole vaulter, achieved significant success in the early 1960s. Set a world record in 1963, reaching a height of 5.34 meters. Competed at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, where strong performances established him as a top contender in the sport. Tragically sustained a serious injury in a car accident in 1966, which altered the course of his athletic career.

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Thomas Blondeau

Flemish writer and poet
Born
June 21st, 1978 48 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 35 years old

Born in 1978, a Flemish writer contributed significantly to contemporary literature. Worked across various genres, including poetry, fiction, and essays. Engaged in cultural critiques and explored themes of identity and society. Authored several influential works, garnering attention for distinctive narrative voice and style. Participated in literary festivals and workshops, promoting the significance of literature in modern society.

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Huell Howser

Television host and actor, 'California's Gold'
Born
October 18th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 68 years old

A television host and actor, contributed significantly to public television programming in California. Hosted the series 'California's Gold', which showcased the diverse cultural and natural beauty of California. Also hosted 'Visiting... with Huell Howser', focusing on local attractions and events. His approachable style and curiosity engaged audiences, making the series popular among viewers.

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Ray Harryhausen

Animator and producer of stop-motion films
Born
June 29th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2013 13 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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Rochus Misch

German SS officer and bodyguard
Born
July 29th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2013 13 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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Kåre Valebrokk

Norwegian journalist and TV presenter
Born
December 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent Norwegian journalist, active in the media landscape for decades. Gained recognition as a presenter on NRK, the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation. Served as the editor-in-chief of the national newspaper Dagbladet for several years. Contributed significantly to public discourse through radio and television programs, focusing on political and social issues. Valebrokk's work has left a lasting legacy in Norwegian journalism, emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency.

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