What Happened This Year 2013

People Who Died in 2013

Gus Winckel

Dutch lieutenant and pilot
Born
1912 114 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 101 years old

Served as a lieutenant in the Royal Netherlands Air Force and demonstrated notable aerial skills during his military career. Played a key role in the Dutch air operations post-World War II, contributing to the establishment of air defense strategies. Engaged in various missions that highlighted the importance of aerial reconnaissance and tactical aerial support for military operations. His career spanned several decades, transitioning from military service to civil aviation roles.

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Jack Harshman

Baseball player and manager, 1953 All-Star
Born
July 12th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 86 years old

An American baseball player and manager, played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1951 to 1961. Selected as an All-Star in 1953 while playing for the Chicago White Sox. Also pitched for the Washington Senators, Baltimore Orioles, and San Francisco Giants. Post playing career included managing in the minor leagues and briefly in the major leagues.

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John Hollander

Poet and literary critic with notable works
Born
October 28th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 83 years old

An American poet, critic, and educator contributed significantly to contemporary poetry and literary criticism. Published numerous collections of poetry including 'Fable' and 'The Picture Window'. Served as a professor at several esteemed institutions, including Yale University and the University of Pennsylvania. Contributed articles and essays to major literary journals and was influential in shaping modern poetry's landscape through both creative work and critical analysis.

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Albert Murray

American author and literary critic
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 97 years old

Contributed significantly to American literature through a focus on African American culture and identity. Developed a critical perspective that highlighted the connections between jazz and literary forms. Authored several influential works including 'The Omni-Americans' and 'South to a Very Old Place'. Worked as a critic and essayist, engaging with popular culture and literature through a reflective lens.

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Jean Kahn

French lawyer and civil rights activist
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old

Played a significant role in advocating for civil rights in France and worked with various organizations to promote social justice. Contributed to the legal framework regarding individual liberties and public policies. Engaged in numerous campaigns focused on minority rights, anti-racism, and civil liberties throughout a lengthy career in law. Held leadership positions in several human rights organizations and served on advisory panels concerning human rights issues.

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Donna Hightower

American singer-songwriter with hit songs
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old

A notable American singer-songwriter, contributed significantly to the music scene with a career that spanned several decades. Achieved recognition in the 1960s and 1970s for soulful interpretations and original compositions. Gained fame with a variety of singles, including a notable version of 'This World Today Is a Mess.' Additionally, worked with various artists and recorded numerous albums, showcasing a rich vocal style that blended pop and soul influences.

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Narendra Dabholkar

Indian author and rationalist activist
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 68 years old

An Indian author and activist focused on rationalism and social reform. Founded the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti, an organization combating superstition and promoting scientific thinking. Wrote extensively on the topics of atheism and rationalism. Authored several books addressing superstition, including 'The Myth of God' and 'Crisis of Faith'. Recognized for vigorous advocacy against black magic and fraudulent practices, leading campaigns to educate the public on rational thought and skepticism.

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Don Hassler

Saxophonist and composer in jazz
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old

An American saxophonist and composer, contributed significantly to the jazz genre with performances and compositions. Collaborated with various artists and ensembles throughout a career spanning several decades. Developed a unique style that blended traditional jazz elements with contemporary influences. Actively participated in music education, sharing expertise with aspiring musicians. Remained engaged in the jazz community until the end of life.

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Marian McPartland

Pianist and composer of jazz music
Born
March 20th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent jazz pianist and composer, contributed to the jazz scene through performance and radio. Emerged as a significant figure in the world of jazz starting in the 1940s. Hosted the radio program 'Piano Jazz' on National Public Radio for over three decades, showcasing a variety of jazz talents. Recorded numerous albums, collaborating with various renowned musicians. Her compositions reflect a blend of classical and jazz influences, and her work has contributed to the evolution of modern jazz.

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