What Happened This Year 2016

People Who Died in 2016

Patrice Munsel

Soprano and actress in operatic roles
Born
May 14th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 91 years old

A noted American soprano and actress, showcased prominent talents in both opera and musical theater. Gained acclaim for the title role in the 1947 production of "Merry Widow" at the Metropolitan Opera. Also starred in productions of operas such as "The Magic Flute" and "The Ballad of Baby Doe." Gained recognition as a guest artist on television series including "The Ed Sullivan Show" and "The Bell Telephone Hour."

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Else Marie Pade

Danish composer and electronic music pioneer
Born
December 2nd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent composer, contributions spanned both traditional and electronic music realms. Studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Music, where foundational skills in composition were developed. Pade's work included pioneering efforts in electronic music, utilizing various technologies to create innovative soundscapes. Collaborated with the Danish Radio and participated in the development of electronic music in Denmark. Several compositions integrated nature and movement into sound, showcasing unique blending of the acoustic and electronic domains.

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Óscar Humberto Mejía Víctores

Guatemalan soldier and President
Born
December 9th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 86 years old

Served as the 27th President of Guatemala from 1983 to 1986 after a military coup. His administration was marked by efforts to stabilize the country during a period of civil conflict. Mejía Víctores aimed to modernize the military and enacted policies to combat insurgency, claiming to improve national security. He eventually transitioned power to a civilian government, leading to democratic elections.

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Andrew Grove

Businessman and author; Intel Corporation
Born
September 2nd, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 80 years old

A businessman and engineer, significant contributions were made to the semiconductor industry. Served as the CEO of Intel Corporation from 1987 to 1998, during which the company became the largest supplier of semiconductor chips. Authored multiple books, including 'Only the Paranoid Survive', which discussed management strategies in the tech industry. Contributed to the development of vital technologies, including microprocessors.

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Billy Paul

Soul singer of 'Me and Mrs. Jones'
Born
December 1st, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1934, one of the noted soul singers, achieved fame with the hit single 'Me and Mrs. Jones' in 1972, which reached number one on the Billboard chart. His career began in the 1950s, performing with various artists and recording with notable labels. Active throughout the 60s and 70s, Paul's work featured elements of jazz and R&B, contributing to the soul genre's evolution. He produced several albums during his career, with many songs reflecting social themes and personal narratives. Continued to perform and record into the later years of life, leaving a lasting influence on the soul music scene.

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Dave Swarbrick

Singer-songwriter and fiddler
Born
April 5th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent figure in the British folk music scene, contributed significantly to the revival of traditional folk music during the 1960s and 1970s. Collaborated extensively with various artists, particularly in the band Fairport Convention. Became recognized for innovative fiddling techniques and the integration of folk elements into rock music. Released several solo albums and participated in numerous recordings with other musicians.

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Andrew Smith

American basketball player
Born
September 9th, 1990 35 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 26 years old

A basketball player who played college basketball for the Butler Bulldogs. Contributed significantly to the team's success during the NCAA tournaments, including reaching the national championship game in 2010. His performance garnered attention, culminating in a professional career.

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Rod Temperton

Keyboardist and songwriter for 'Thriller'
Born
October 9th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 67 years old

A keyboard player, songwriter, and record producer. Initially worked with the band Heatwave and contributed to their hit 'Boogie Nights.' Gained recognition for writing and producing tracks for Michael Jackson, including the iconic 'Thriller' which is one of the best-selling albums of all time. Also wrote 'Rock with You' and 'Give Me the Night' for George Benson. Received multiple Grammy nominations throughout the career, winning a Grammy Award for the song 'Rock with You.' Temperton’s work significantly shaped the sound of popular music in the late 20th century.

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Chris Amon

New Zealand Formula One driver with Ferrari
Born
July 20th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 73 years old

A race car driver from New Zealand competed in Formula One from 1963 to 1976. Achieved a reputation for skill behind the wheel, driving for teams such as Ferrari and Matra. Participated in 96 Grand Prix races and secured a total of 11 podium finishes during his career. Notably raced in the renowned 24 Hours of Le Mans, showcasing endurance racing capabilities. After retiring from professional racing, contributed to the sport through various roles, including team management and engineering.

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