What Happened This Year 2016

People Who Died in 2016

Anahid Ajemian

American violinist and chamber musician
Born
January 26th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
2016 10 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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Omar Mateen

Islamic terrorist, Orlando shooter
Born
November 16th, 1986 39 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 30 years old

Born in 1986, committed the Orlando nightclub shooting on June 12, 2016. The attack occurred at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, resulting in 49 deaths and numerous injuries. The event became one of the deadliest mass shootings in U.S. history. The shooter pledged allegiance to ISIS during the attack, which drew national and international attention to issues of terrorism and gun control.

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Conrad Burns

American politician and journalist
Born
January 25th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 81 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from Montana from 1989 to 2007. Prior to entering politics, engaged in a career in journalism, establishing a reputation in reporting and commentary. Burns held various positions in both state and national politics, including membership on key Senate committees. Maintained a focus on issues such as agriculture and rural development during tenure. His tenure showcased a commitment to addressing the needs of Montanans through legislative efforts.

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Lou Fontinato

Ice Hockey Player, New York Rangers
Born
January 20th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 84 years old

Played as a professional ice hockey defenseman, Fontinato had a notable career predominantly with the New York Rangers in the National Hockey League (NHL). Joining the Rangers in 1954, he became recognized for his physical style of play and toughness on the ice. His playing career spanned from 1951 to 1966, during which he also played for the Detroit Red Wings and the Montreal Canadiens. After retiring from professional play, he transitioned into a career in coaching and scouting.

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Ken Sailors

Basketball player and pioneer of the jump shot
Born
January 14th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 95 years old

Played college basketball at the University of Wyoming. Contributed to the development of the jump shot, a key technique in basketball. Competed in the NBA for teams including the Boston Celtics and the New York Knicks. Represented the United States in the 1948 Olympics, winning a gold medal. Later engaged in coaching and teaching, sharing knowledge of basketball and sportsmanship.

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James Dale Ritchie

American serial killer
Born
November 4th, 1976 49 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 40 years old

A convicted serial killer engaged in criminal activities primarily in the late 1990s. His crimes included multiple homicides and associated events, which led to significant media coverage and public attention. Law enforcement investigations ultimately linked several murders to him, resulting in a long-term incarceration. The case highlighted various challenges in criminal profiling and forensic science during the era.

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Raoul Coutard

Cinematographer for French New Wave films
Born
September 16th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent cinematographer and director, contributed significantly to the French New Wave movement. Collaborated with notable directors such as Jean-Luc Godard and François Truffaut, shaping the visual style of contemporary cinema. Employed innovative techniques, including handheld camera usage and natural lighting. Worked on acclaimed films, including "Breathless" and "The 400 Blows," which became landmarks in film history.

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Russ Nixon

MLB catcher and coach for the Red Sox
Born
February 19th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 81 years old

Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball. Spent parts of seven seasons with the Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins from 1957 to 1963. Transitioned into a coaching career after retirement from playing, including a role as a coach for the Red Sox. Contributed to the development of players in various coaching positions throughout the years.

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Beatrice de Cardi

Archaeologist and academic in archaeology
Born
June 5th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 102 years old

A significant figure in the field of archaeology, particularly in the study of prehistoric Britain and the Near East. Conducted extensive excavations at sites in the UK, such as the Neolithic site of Avebury and the Bronze Age burial mounds in Cambridgeshire. Played an essential role in promoting the understanding of ancient cultures through her academic work and publications. Served as a lecturer and research fellow, influencing many students and researchers in the archaeological community throughout her career.

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