What Happened This Year 2016

People Who Died in 2016

Nera White

Basketball player; Pan American Games gold
Born
November 15th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 81 years old

Played basketball at the collegiate level for the University of Connecticut and significantly contributed to the team. Excelled in international competition, representing the United States. Participated in the 1955 Pan American Games, where the team secured a gold medal. Following the competitive career, transitioned to coaching, mentoring young players and promoting the sport.

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Anahid Ajemian

American violinist and chamber musician
Born
January 26th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1924, this American violinist gained recognition for performances both as a soloist and as a chamber musician. Studied at the Juilliard School and participated in several prestigious music festivals. Collaborated with prominent artists and ensembles, contributing to the classical music landscape. Recorded works of various composers and participated in notable world premieres.

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Roy Señeres

Filipino diplomat and politician
Born
July 6th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 69 years old

Served as a prominent diplomat and politician in the Philippines. Took on various roles including being the Undersecretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs. Elected as a Member of the House of Representatives, representing the 1st District of Quezon City. Notably ran for the presidency in the 2016 Philippine elections, aiming to implement policies focused on governance and social issues.

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Robert McNeill Alexander

British zoologist and biomechanist
Born
July 7th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 82 years old

Contributions to zoology and biomechanics centered on animal locomotion. Conducted extensive research on the mechanics of movement in various species, particularly vertebrates. Developed innovative techniques for analyzing how animals run, swim, and fly. Published numerous influential papers and books that have shaped understanding across multiple fields. Engaged in educating future scientists through teaching and mentorship at various institutions.

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W.D. Amaradeva

Sri Lankan musician and composer
Born
December 5th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent musician and composer from Sri Lanka, contributions included a significant body of work in traditional and contemporary music. Played a crucial role in popularizing Sinhala folk music and classical music. Received numerous accolades throughout a career spanning several decades, including national awards for artistic excellence. Contributed to the development of the Sri Lankan music scene and influenced generations of musicians and composers.

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Bata Živojinović

Serbian actor and politician
Born
June 5th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 83 years old

This individual was a prominent Serbian actor and politician. Career in film began in the 1950s, with significant roles in several notable movies and television series. Gained fame for performances in films such as 'Bitka na Neretvi' and 'Marat/Sade.' Transitioned into politics, serving in various governmental positions, and contributed to the arts and culture sector in Serbia.

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Carlo Mastrangelo

Doo-wop singer with The Five Satins
Born
October 5th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent doo-wop singer, gained recognition as a member of The Five Satins. The group formed in 1954 and achieved major success in the music industry. They are most recognized for the classic track 'In the Still of the Nite,' which has since become a quintessential doo-wop standard. The Five Satins' unique blend of harmonies and styles significantly influenced the genre and left a lasting legacy in American music. Mastrangelo's influence extended beyond his singing career as he participated in various reunions and performances, celebrating the doo-wop era.

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Hassan al-Turabi

Sudanese activist and political leader
Born
February 1st, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent Sudanese politician and activist, played a significant role in the political landscape of Sudan. Founded the Popular National Congress Party in 1999 after splitting from the National Congress Party. Advocated for Islamic law while also strategizing for a more inclusive governance. Contributed to the dialogue between various political factions in Sudan during a time of civil unrest and led efforts for national dialogue. Served as a parliamentary member and was involved in various political reforms.

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Michal Kováč

Lawyer and 1st President of Slovakia
Born
August 5th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 86 years old

A lawyer and politician served as the first President of Slovakia from 1993 to 1998 after Slovakia gained independence from Czechoslovakia. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Slovak Republic and its governance during its formative years. Oversaw various reforms aimed at building a democratic state and contributed to international recognition for Slovakia. His presidency was marked by efforts to stabilize the new government and integrate Slovakia into European structures.

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