What Happened This Year 2013

People Who Died in 2013

Jim Mees

Set designer for Broadway productions
Born
August 10th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 58 years old

A set designer contributed to numerous significant Broadway productions. Contributions included designing sets for notable works such as 'Les Misérables' and 'The Lion King'. His work helped enhance the overall aesthetic and storytelling of these performances.

Continue Reading

Rusi Surti

Indian cricketer and Test player
Born
May 25th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 77 years old

Debuted in international cricket in the 1950s and represented India in 36 Test matches until 1962. Primarily played as an all-rounder, contributing with both bat and ball. Extended career spanned domestic cricket where achievements included impressive performances for Saurashtra and the West Zone. Transitioned into coaching and cricket administration after retirement from playing.

Continue Reading

Alfred Benlloch Llorach

Spanish inventor of rotomolding process
Born
October 17th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 96 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of industrial manufacturing, particularly through the development of the rotomolding process. This innovative method revolutionized the production of hollow plastic parts, allowing for improved efficiency and versatility in manufacturing. The rotomolding technique has since been adopted across various industries, including automotive, toys, and furniture. Benlloch Llorach's work facilitated advancements in material science and production techniques, influencing subsequent generations of engineers and manufacturers.

Continue Reading

Antonino Calderone

Italian mobster affiliated with Sicilian Mafia
Born
October 24th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 78 years old

Affiliated with the Sicilian Mafia, engaged in organized crime activities primarily in Sicily and other regions of Italy. Involvement in criminal enterprises included drug trafficking and extortion. Became a significant figure in the Mafia hierarchy, leading to participation in various illicit operations. Cooperated with law enforcement during the 1990s, providing insights into Mafia operations and structure, which contributed to the understanding of organized crime networks.

Continue Reading

James Hood

American civil rights activist
Born
November 10th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 71 years old

Participated in the Civil Rights Movement and played a significant role in the desegregation of the University of Alabama. In 1963, Hood, along with two other African American students, requested admission to the university, which had been segregated. The demand led to a standoff with Governor George Wallace, who attempted to block their entry. Hood's enrollment at the university marked a pivotal moment in the struggle for civil rights in education, further igniting the movement across the Southern United States.

Continue Reading

Jimmy Dawkins

Blues singer and guitarist
Born
October 24th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 77 years old

Active in the Chicago blues scene, contributed significantly as a singer and guitarist. Began recording in the late 1960s and gained attention for unique style. Released several albums, showcasing original material alongside traditional blues. Performed extensively in clubs and festivals, influencing emerging artists within the genre.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Frederic Franklin

Ballet dancer and director, Ballet Russe
Born
June 13th, 1914 111 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.

Continue Reading

Wu Zhengyi

Chinese botanist and academic researcher
Born
June 13th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 97 years old

A prominent botanist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of botany in China. Served in key roles at various educational and research institutions, including as a professor and researcher at Sun Yat-sen University. Conducted extensive research on plant taxonomy, especially in the Guangdong region. Published numerous academic papers and participated in various flora surveys, enhancing the understanding of China's biodiversity.

Continue Reading