What Happened This Year 2014

People Who Died in 2014

Connie Binsfeld

American politician and educator, 58th Lt. Gov.
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old

Served as the 58th Lieutenant Governor of Michigan from 1991 to 1995. Worked extensively in education, contributing to the advancement of educational policies in the state. Held various positions in public service, including serving in the Michigan House of Representatives. Participated in numerous boards and committees focused on education reform and community service. Engaged in grassroots efforts to improve local communities through educational initiatives.

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Waldemar von Gazen

German general and lawyer
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 97 years old

Served as a general in the German Army, engaging in military strategy and operations. Had a prominent legal career, contributing to military law and regulations. Participated in various conflicts during his tenure and provided legal oversight in military situations. Involved in post-war military restructuring.

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Juan Gelman

Argentinian Poet and Author
Born
May 3rd, 1930 94 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent poet and author, created significant works that reflect the political and social landscape of Argentina during the 20th century. Poetry often centered around themes of memory, loss, and exile, shaped by the political turmoil of the military dictatorship. Received numerous accolades for contributions to literature, including the Jorge Luis Borges International Prize and the Pablo Neruda Award. Worked as a journalist and translator, expanding the reach of his poetic voice and engaging with global literary communities.

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Flavio Testi

Italian composer and musicologist
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old

Contributed extensively to the study and composition of contemporary music. Held a prominent role as a musicologist, focusing on 20th-century musical forms and practices. Authored various analytical texts on music history and style. Composed works that explored the boundaries of musical genres and techniques, collaborating with numerous musicians and ensembles. Engaged with educational institutions to promote music theory and composition.

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Jon Bing

Norwegian author and academic
Born
April 30th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2014 11 years ago — 69 years old

An author and scholar, engaged in literature and technology. Contributed significantly to the Norwegian literary landscape. Worked in various capacities, including teaching at a university level and writing extensively for radio and television. Created influential works that reflect on contemporary issues, merging fiction with themes from science and technology. Published numerous texts exploring the intersection of literature and digital culture. Achieved recognition through awards and honors for contributions to literature and media.

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Roger Lloyd-Pack

English actor from 'Only Fools and Horses'
Born
February 8th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2014 11 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent English actor, his career spanned television, film, and stage. Best recognized for his role as Trigger in the British sitcom 'Only Fools and Horses', portrayed the character with a memorable performance that resonated with audiences. Also appeared in the series 'The Vicar of Dibley' as Owen, showcasing a talent for both comedy and drama. In film, contributed to projects including 'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire' as Barty Crouch Sr. His work on stage included significant performances in classic and contemporary plays, demonstrating versatility.

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John Dobson

Astronomer and author of telescope design
Born
December 9th, 1787 237 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2014 11 years ago — 226 years old

A Chinese-American astronomer focused on promoting amateur astronomy and public outreach. Developed the Dobsonian telescope, which simplified telescope design and construction for amateur astronomers. Founded the San Francisco Sidewalk Astronomers, making stargazing accessible to the public, and encouraged the use of telescopes for recreational astronomy. Authored several books on the subject of astronomy, contributing to the education of many enthusiasts in the field.

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Hiroo Onoda

Japanese intelligence officer, WWII
Born
March 19th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old

Served as a second lieutenant in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Stationed on Lubang Island in the Philippines, Onoda engaged in guerrilla warfare against American forces. After Japan's surrender in 1945, he continued to fight, unaware that the war had ended. Persisted in his mission for nearly 30 years, living in the jungle and conducting raids on local farmers and hikers. Surrendered in 1974 when his former commanding officer traveled to the island to formally relieve him of duty.

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Ruth Duccini

American actress; Munchkin in The Wizard of Oz
Born
July 23rd, 1918 106 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2014 11 years ago — 95 years old

An accomplished actress, contributed to the field of entertainment from a young age. Gained recognition as a Munchkin in the classic film The Wizard of Oz, released in 1939. Throughout the career, participated in various theatrical productions and television shows. Her portrayal in The Wizard of Oz remains a significant highlight in the film's legacy. Continued to be involved in the film and television industry for several decades.

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