What Happened This Year 2016

People Who Died in 2016

Rob Ford

Canadian politician, 64th Mayor of Toronto
Born
May 28th, 1969 55 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2016 9 years ago — 46 years old

Served as the 64th mayor of Toronto from 2010 to 2014. Focused on reducing the city’s budget deficits and cutting taxes. Introduced significant changes to public transit and city services during tenure. His time in office was marked by controversy and public incidents that garnered international attention. Prior to mayorship, served as a city councillor for several years, where engagement with local constituents was a primary focus. Health issues later impacted public and political life.

Continue Reading

Phife Dawg

American rapper and member of A Tribe Called Quest
Born
November 20th, 1970 54 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2016 9 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent figure in hip-hop, played a crucial role as a member of the influential group A Tribe Called Quest. The group released classic albums such as 'People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm' and 'The Low End Theory,' which are celebrated for their innovative sound and lyrical depth. In addition to contributing significantly to the group's work, solo projects included the album 'Ventilation: Da LP.' Styles incorporated elements of jazz, funk, and spoken word, shaping the genre's evolution. His distinctive voice and clever wordplay left a lasting legacy within the hip-hop community.

Continue Reading

Rita Gam

American actress in film and television
Born
April 2nd, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2016 9 years ago — 88 years old

An actress gained recognition for roles in both film and theater. Achievements include performances in the classic film 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The 7th Voyage of Sinbad'. Contributed to various adaptations of Shakespeare's works, showcasing talent in dramatic arts. Later involvement with charitable organizations reflected commitment to social causes.

Continue Reading

Ken Howard

American actor and award-winning performer
Born
March 28th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2016 9 years ago — 71 years old

An American actor who gained prominence for a career spanning several decades in film, television, and theater. Best recognized for the role of Coach Ken Reeves in the television series "The White Shadow." Received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for the Broadway production of "Child's Play". Served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 2009 to 2011, advocating for the rights of performers. In addition to television and stage work, appeared in films including "Caprice" and "The Descendants."

Continue Reading

Joe Garagiola

Baseball Player and Sports Broadcaster
Born
February 12th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2016 9 years ago — 90 years old

Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1946 to 1954, primarily with the St. Louis Cardinals, New York Giants, and Chicago Cubs. Transitioned to sports broadcasting after retirement, becoming a prominent commentator. Served as a host for the television game show 'The Today Show' along with baseball coverage on NBC. Authored a memoir titled 'Baseball is a Funny Game', reflecting on experiences in the sport.

Continue Reading

Garry Shandling

American comedian and actor of 'The Larry Sanders Show'
Born
November 29th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2016 9 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent figure in the world of comedy and television, this individual gained recognition for pioneering the modern talk show format. Created and starred in 'The Larry Sanders Show', which showcased a behind-the-scenes look at a late-night talk show and received widespread acclaim. Additionally, played a significant role in 'It's Garry Shandling's Show', further solidifying a legacy in comedic television. Contributed as a writer and performer on various projects, influencing a generation of comedians with a unique blend of humor and insight.

Continue Reading

Johan Cruyff

Footballer and coach, three-time Ballon d'Or winner
Born
April 25th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2016 9 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent figure in football, gained recognition as a forward known for exceptional skill and intelligence on the pitch. Played for Ajax and FC Barcelona. Contributed significantly to Ajax's dominance in the 1970s, leading the team to three consecutive European Cups from 1971 to 1973. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, achieving notable success with Barcelona, including the club's first European Cup victory in 1992. Advocated for a style of play that emphasized possession and creativity, influencing future generations of footballers and coaches.

Continue Reading

Shannon Bolin

Actress and singer in musical theatre
Born
January 1st, 1917 108 years ago
Died
March 25th, 2016 9 years ago — 99 years old

A prominent actress and singer in American musical theatre, this artist gained recognition for performances in productions such as 'The Sound of Music' and 'Oklahoma!'. Active during the mid-20th century, contributions included both on-stage performances and musical recordings that showcased vocal talent. The career spanned multiple decades, illustrating dedication to the art form and leaving a mark on the theatre community.

Continue Reading

Jim Harrison

American novelist and poet
Born
December 11th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2016 9 years ago — 78 years old

An American novelist, essayist, and poet, contributed significant works in literature throughout the 20th century. Published numerous novels, essays, and poems that explored themes of nature, food, and the human condition. Gained recognition for the novel 'Legends of the Fall', which was later adapted into a film. Worked consistently in the realm of creative writing, influencing a generation of writers. Received various accolades for literary contributions, making substantial contributions to American letters.

Continue Reading