What Happened This Year 2016

People Who Died in 2016

John D. Roberts

Chemist and academic, authored key texts
Born
June 8th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 98 years old

A prominent chemist and academic contributed extensively to the field of organic chemistry. Developed significant theories and methodologies, especially in nuclear magnetic resonance. Served as a professor and held a prestigious position at the California Institute of Technology. Authored foundational texts that are widely used in chemistry curricula. Received the National Medal of Science for contributions to the advancement of chemical sciences.

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Otis Clay

American singer-songwriter, soul artist
Born
February 11th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1942, a prominent figure in the soul music genre, recognized for powerful vocal performances and emotive lyrics. Early career involved recording gospel music before transitioning to secular soul. Achieved widespread acclaim with hallmark tracks and collaborated with various artists throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Notable for contributions to the Chicago music scene, blending soul with a unique style that resonated with audiences. Inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, underscoring significant influence in music.

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Frank Armitage

Artist known for his paintings and murals
Born
September 5th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 92 years old

An Australian-American artist worked primarily in painting and muralism. Born in 1924, created a body of work that reflects influences from both Australian and American art styles. Contributed significantly to the visual art scene, with a focus on landscapes and abstract compositions. Also served as an educator, sharing artistic techniques with students. His work has been exhibited in various galleries, demonstrating a blend of personal vision and cultural motifs.

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Denys Wilkinson

English physicist and academic physicist
Born
September 5th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 94 years old

A physicist and academic specialized in nuclear physics. Contributed significantly to the development of the field, particularly in relation to nuclear reactors and particle physics. Served as a professor at the University of Oxford and held several prestigious academic positions. Conducted extensive research that advanced the understanding of nuclear processes and their applications. Involved in various scientific organizations and published numerous papers throughout the career.

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Mike Oxley

American lawyer and politician
Born
February 11th, 1944 82 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 72 years old

Served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1995 to 2007. Represented Ohio's 4th congressional district. Played a significant role in the passage of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act in 2002, which established new regulations for public company accounting and auditing. Prior to Congress, worked as a lawyer and served in the Ohio state government, including roles in the Ohio State Senate.

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Dwight Jones

Basketball player for the Houston Rockets
Born
February 27th, 1952 74 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 64 years old

A professional basketball player played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) primarily for the Houston Rockets. Entered the league after being selected in the 1973 NBA Draft. Played as a forward and made a significant contribution to the Rockets' performance during his tenure. Jones was part of a team known for its competitive spirit in the NBA during the 1970s.

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Guy Clark

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
November 6th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent figure in American country music, contributed significantly to the genre through songwriting and performance. Gained recognition for storytelling within lyrics, capturing rural life and personal experiences. Released several acclaimed albums such as 'Old No. 1' and 'Dublin Blues'. Worked with various artists and influenced many in the music industry.

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Nikolaus Harnoncourt

Cellist and conductor of early music
Born
December 6th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 87 years old

A significant figure in the performance of Baroque and Classical music, this individual earned recognition through innovative interpretations and leadership in orchestral practices. Contributions included founding the Concentus Musicus Wien, which specialized in historically informed performances. The individual also conducted major orchestras and operas, influencing the approach to early music across Europe.

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Bob Vanatta

Basketball coach and mentor
Born
July 7th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 98 years old

One of the prominent figures in college basketball coaching during the mid-20th century. Served as head coach for Edwin S. Webb High School and later for multiple college teams, including a tenure at the University of Kentucky. Contributed significantly to developing basketball programs and mentoring young athletes. His coaching style focused on strategic gameplay and player development, leading to numerous victories for his teams.

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