What Happened This Year 2016

People Who Died in 2016

Tyruss Himes

American rapper and songwriter
Born
1968 57 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2016 8 years ago — 48 years old

An influential figure in the hip-hop scene, a member of the group Thug Life alongside Tupac Shakur. Worked on numerous collaborations and solo projects, contributing to the West Coast rap movement. Released notable albums, including 'Big Syke's Life' and 'The Outlawz - Ride Wit Us or Collide Wit Us.' Established a strong reputation in the music industry for distinctive style and lyrical content.

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Peter Vaughan

English actor best known for Porridge
Born
April 4th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 6th, 2016 8 years ago — 93 years old

An English actor with a career spanning over six decades. Vaughan gained recognition for his role as Norman Stanley Fletcher in the television series 'Porridge' and as Grouty in 'Porridge' and its sequel. Other notable performances include appearances in films such as 'The Remains of the Day' and 'The Naked Civil Servant', showcasing his versatility in both television and film. Vaughan's contributions to acting have left a lasting impression in the industry, often portraying characters with depth and nuance across various genres.

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Greg Lake

Singer-songwriter and guitarist for ELP
Born
November 10th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2016 8 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent English musician, influential in the progressive rock genre. Achieved fame as a member of the band Emerson, Lake & Palmer, one of the genre's most celebrated groups. Contributed to the band's unique sound through original compositions and guitar work. Also involved in the band King Crimson, providing vocals and guitar on their iconic album 'In the Court of the Crimson King'. Established a successful solo career with hit songs that further showcased musical talents.

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Junaid Jamshed

Pakistani singer-songwriter and naat khawan
Born
September 3rd, 1964 60 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2016 8 years ago — 52 years old

Started a musical career in the late 1980s as the lead vocalist of the band Vital Signs, which gained popularity with the hit song 'Dil Dil Pakistan'. Transitioned to religious music and became a prominent naat khawan, expressing devotion through poetry and song. Launched a solo music career, releasing several albums that featured both pop and religious themes. Became widely recognized in Pakistan and among the diaspora for spiritual performances and community-oriented initiatives. Also served as a television presenter on various Islamic programs, sharing religious teachings and perspectives. Junaid Jamshed's journey reflected significant shifts in musical style and audience engagement over the years.

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John Glenn

American astronaut and senator
Born
July 10th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2016 8 years ago — 88 years old

An American astronaut and politician served as a United States senator representing Ohio. Flew on the Mercury-Atlas 6 mission in 1962, becoming the first American to orbit the Earth. Later became the oldest person to fly in space at age 77 aboard Space Shuttle Discovery in 1998. Contributed to various legislative efforts while serving in the Senate, focusing on science, technology, and defense.

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Shirley Hazzard

Novelist and essayist, The Transit of Venus
Born
January 30th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 12th, 2016 8 years ago — 85 years old

This writer gained recognition for novels that blend personal and historical narratives. Published literary works often explored themes of love, loss, and the human experience. Notable works include 'The Transit of Venus' and 'The Great Fire,' both of which received critical acclaim. Contributions to literature extended to essays and short stories, showcasing an ability to dissect complex emotions and societal issues. Long-lasting influence on contemporary literature derives from a sophisticated narrative style and deep exploration of characters.

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Alan Thicke

Television actor and theme music composer
Born
March 1st, 1947 78 years ago
Died
December 13th, 2016 8 years ago — 69 years old

Born in Canada, an actor contributed significantly to television during the 1980s and 1990s. Starred as Jason Seaver in the popular sitcom 'Growing Pains,' which aired from 1985 to 1992. Also gained recognition for composing theme music for various television shows, including the iconic theme for 'The Different Strokes.' Pursued a career in both acting and music, becoming a familiar face on American television. Later appeared in reality television projects and talk shows, maintaining a presence in the entertainment industry until his passing.

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Bernard Fox

British actor known for 'The Mummy'
Born
May 11th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2016 8 years ago — 89 years old

An actor with a career spanning several decades, noted for roles in film and television. Gained recognition for performances in productions such as 'The Mummy' and 'Bewitched'. Also appeared in various theatrical productions and gained a following for work in genre films and television series, often portraying characters with a charming yet eccentric flair. His performances showcased versatility and significant screen presence.

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Paulo Evaristo Arns

Brazilian cardinal and activist
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2016 8 years ago — 95 years old

Served as the Archbishop of São Paulo from 1970 to 1998. Played a significant role in advocating for human rights during the military dictatorship in Brazil. Promoted social justice and worked to improve the conditions of the poor and marginalized. Contributed to the development of liberation theology, emphasizing the need for the church to address social issues. Actively participated in public debates on religious and political matters, gaining prominence for work in pastoral care and social activism.

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