What Happened This Year 2013

People Who Died in 2013

S. N. Goenka

Meditation teacher and author of Dhamma
Born
January 30th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2013 11 years ago — 89 years old

An influential meditation teacher and author, focused on Vipassana meditation. Conducted extensive meditation courses globally, emphasizing its practical application for personal development and mental well-being. Established numerous meditation centers worldwide, including the Vipassana Research Institute in Igatpuri, India. Authored books on meditation techniques and the teachings of the Buddha, contributing to the spread of Buddhist philosophy in the modern era.

Continue Reading

Harold Agnew

American physicist and academic
Born
March 28th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2013 11 years ago — 92 years old

Contributed significantly to nuclear physics and played a pivotal role in the development of nuclear weapons during World War II. Worked on the Manhattan Project, focusing on the design and construction of the first atomic bombs. Served as a professor at the University of California, San Diego, and later as the director of Los Alamos National Laboratory, overseeing various research projects in physics and engineering. Published numerous scientific papers and engaged in academic discussions on nuclear policy and ethics.

Continue Reading

Janet Powell

Australian politician and educator
Born
September 29th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2013 11 years ago — 71 years old

An Australian educator and politician, served in the Victorian Legislative Council from 1988 to 1999. Contributed significantly to educational policy and reform during tenure. Instrumental in women’s advocacy and issues related to education. Worked in various educational roles prior to entering politics, promoting enhancements in teaching and learning in Australia.

Continue Reading

Imero Fiorentino

Lighting designer for Broadway productions
Born
July 12th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2013 11 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent American lighting designer, played a significant role in the transformation of stage lighting. Created memorable lighting designs for various notable Broadway productions, enhancing the visual storytelling through innovative lighting techniques. Contributed to the evolution of theatrical lighting, working alongside renowned directors and designers to deliver compelling visual narratives. Also involved in the teaching of lighting design, sharing expertise with future generations of designers.

Continue Reading

Israel Gutman

Historian and author of Holocaust studies
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2013 11 years ago — 90 years old

A historian and author focused on the Holocaust, contributed significantly to the understanding of Jewish resistance during World War II. Published works include detailed analyses of concentration camps and testimonies of survivors. Served as a professor at various universities and as a prominent member of Yad Vashem, Israel's official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. Influenced the study of Holocaust education and remembrance through extensive research and documentation.

Continue Reading

Ole Danbolt Mjøs

Norwegian physician and politician
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2013 11 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent physician and academic, dedicated career in medicine and health policy. Served as the director of the Norwegian Institute of Public Health, contributing to significant advancements in public health initiatives. Held the position of Minister of Health and Social Affairs, implementing reforms in healthcare systems. Involved in various international health organizations, advocating for improved healthcare practices. Engaged in academic pursuits, focusing on health policy and medical research.

Continue Reading

Arnold Burns

United States Deputy Attorney General
Born
April 14th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2013 11 years ago — 83 years old

A lawyer and politician served as the 21st Deputy Attorney General of the United States. Played a crucial role in the Justice Department during the 1980s. Oversaw various legal matters pertaining to federal law enforcement and policy.

Continue Reading

Sergei Belov

Basketball player and Olympic champion
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 2013 11 years ago — 69 years old

Played basketball for the Soviet national team and achieved great success in international competitions. Participated in multiple European Championships and World Championships, securing several titles. Contributed to the USSR's gold medal victory at the 1972 Munich Olympics, which marked a significant achievement in Olympic basketball history. Later transitioned into coaching, influencing the next generation of players. His impact on the sport extended beyond playing, fostering talent in various capacities.

Continue Reading

John Cloudsley-Thompson

Commander and military strategist
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2013 11 years ago — 92 years old

Served as a commander in the British Army with a focus on military strategies in various operations. Contributed to military education and leadership through training and guiding troops. Authored several works on military tactics and history, including insights on the operation and effectiveness of infantry units. Engaged in advocating for improved strategies and training methods within the army.

Continue Reading