What Happened This Year 2013

People Who Died in 2013

W. Reece Smith

American lawyer and legal academic
Born
September 19th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 88 years old

Significant contributions to law education and practice occurred through a long academic career. Delivered notable lectures on legal ethics and served as a professor. Held prominent positions within the American Bar Association and contributed extensively to legal literature. Advocated for the integration of practical skills in legal education, influencing the development of programs nationwide. Involved in several key legal bodies and committees focused on standards for legal education.

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Allen Lanier

Guitarist and songwriter with Blue Öyster Cult
Born
June 25th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 67 years old

Contributed as a guitarist and keyboardist for the rock band Blue Öyster Cult, which achieved significant success in the 1970s and 1980s. Participated in the writing of several songs for the band, helping to shape their sound. Also worked on solo music projects and collaborated with various artists throughout a career that spanned decades. Valued for contributions to the rock music scene.

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Stanisław Targosz

Polish general and military leader
Born
July 23rd, 1948 77 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1948, a general in the Polish Armed Forces served in various capacities during a significant period in Poland's military history. Played a crucial role in the transition from communist military structures to a modernized armed force. Contributed to Poland's integration into NATO and participated in various international military operations. Led initiatives to enhance military cooperation between Poland and allied nations, facilitating training and joint exercises. Retired from active service, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and modernization in the Polish military.

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Jessica Upshaw

American lawyer and politician
Born
August 31st, 1959 66 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 54 years old

Practiced law in Mississippi and served in the state legislature. Elected to the Mississippi House of Representatives in 2002, representing District 94. Served on various committees and worked on legislation regarding education, healthcare, and public safety. Ran for re-election multiple times and held office until 2016.

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Mary Ann McMorrow

American lawyer and judge
Born
January 16th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 83 years old

Graduated from the University of Chicago Law School, where a legal scholar, later became a prominent figure in the Illinois judicial system. Appointed as an Associate Justice of the Illinois Supreme Court, serving from 1992 to 2000. Achieved the distinction of being the first woman to hold this position. During tenure, contributed to major judicial opinions and reforms within the state's legal framework. Promoted legal education and women's rights throughout career.

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Rituparno Ghosh

Indian filmmaker and playwright
Born
August 31st, 1963 62 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent figure in Bengali cinema, significant contributions occurred in directing and screenwriting. Received accolades for films such as 'Bariwali', 'Chokher Bali', and 'Shob Charitro Kalponik'. The works often explored complex emotional themes and social issues, earning critical acclaim and audience appreciation. Led a revival of art house cinema in India, utilizing a unique storytelling approach. Also noted for contributions to theatre and television, showcasing a holistic commitment to the arts.

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Takashi Yanase

Poet and illustrator, creator of Anpanman
Born
February 6th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 94 years old

Born in 1919, a notable poet and illustrator contributed significantly to children's literature in Japan. Created the beloved character Anpanman, which became a staple in Japanese culture. Worked on various illustrations and poems that resonated with both children and adults. Engaged in artistic endeavors throughout life and emphasized themes of kindness and imagination.

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Rex Trailer

Television host of 'Boomtown'
Born
September 16th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 85 years old

American television host, actor, and singer gained fame as the host of the children's show 'Boomtown' which aired from 1956 to 1976. The program featured various segments including music, sketches, and educational content aimed at young audiences. Trailer's engaging style and musical performances contributed to the show's popularity. In addition to television, Trailer also pursued a career in music, recording several albums and performing live. His contributions to children's entertainment left a lasting legacy in American television history.

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Little Willie Littlefield

Singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
September 16th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 82 years old

An American-Dutch singer-songwriter and pianist, became prominent in the rhythm and blues genre, particularly during the 1950s. His career included a blend of blues, rock and roll, and boogie-woogie. Released popular tracks such as 'Kansas City' and 'They Raided the Joint'. His music contributed to the development of early rock and roll, influencing many artists. Later relocated to the Netherlands, where an extensive touring schedule helped maintain his presence on the European music scene.

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