What Happened This Year 2016

People Who Died in 2016

Helen Delich Bentley

American politician and transportation leader
Born
November 28th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1923, served as the U.S. Representative for Maryland's 2nd congressional district from 1985 to 1995. Prior roles included the Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission from 1975 to 1982. Focused on maritime and transportation policy, advocating for the shipping industry and enhancing maritime infrastructure. Oversaw the implementation of regulations impacting shipping and trade. Bentley also contributed to improving the Port of Baltimore during her tenure.

Continue Reading

Lilia Cuntapay

Filipino actress in horror films
Born
September 16th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 81 years old

An actress, primarily recognized for roles in the horror genre, gained prominence in the Philippines through her performances in films that became cult classics. Made significant appearances in movies such as 'Shake, Rattle & Roll' and 'The Healing', where she portrayed memorable characters that resonated with audiences. Her contributions to the film industry extended through various cinematic projects over decades, marking her as a staple figure in Filipino horror cinema.

Continue Reading

Bob Kiley

Businessman and transit planner
Born
September 16th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1935, a businessman and transit planner played a significant role in improving public transportation systems. Worked for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) and served as its general manager, overseeing numerous initiatives to enhance services. Later, contributed to the transportation landscape in New York City and London, focusing on financial and operational efficiencies. Involved in international transportation consulting, providing expertise in transit planning and management.

Continue Reading

Gato Barbieri

Saxophonist known for Latin jazz.
Born
November 28th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Argentina, a celebrated saxophonist and composer specialized in Latin jazz. Influenced by the music of his homeland, combined traditional Argentine elements with jazz. Gained international recognition in the 1970s, particularly for the soundtrack of the film "Last Tango in Paris." The vivid and emotive playing style captivated audiences worldwide. Collaborated with various artists across genres and recorded numerous albums throughout a prolific career. Continued to perform and compose until the later years of life. Barbieri's contributions to music remain significant in the jazz genre.

Continue Reading

Arnold Wesker

Playwright and producer of 'The Kitchen'
Born
May 24th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent English playwright and producer, he contributed significantly to contemporary theatre during the 20th century. Emerging in the 1950s, he gained recognition for works that explored social issues and human conditions. His most influential play, 'The Kitchen', premiered in 1957 and depicted life in a restaurant, capturing the dynamics of work and personal relationships. Wesker's writings often reflected his Jewish heritage and political concerns, leading to a body of work characterized by its emotional depth. Besides playwriting, he engaged in theatre production and was involved in various cultural initiatives throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Maggie Blye

Actress known for 'The Twilight Zone'
Born
October 24th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 74 years old

Maggie Blye was an American actress recognized for contributions to television and film from the 1960s through the 1980s. Roles included appearances in 'The Twilight Zone', 'The Monkees', and various films such as 'The Man from U.N.C.L.E.' and 'WUSA'. Her performances spanned a range of genres including drama and comedy. In addition to her work on screen, she appeared in live theater productions, showcasing her versatility as a performer. Blye's career reflected significant involvement in the entertainment industry during a transformative period for both television and film.

Continue Reading

Hanif Mohammad

Cricketer and test match batting legend
Born
December 21st, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent cricketer, achieved significant success in Test cricket, representing the national team from 1952 to 1969. Played as a right-handed batsman, becoming the first cricketer to score 1,000 runs in a calendar year during 1957. Hold the record for the longest innings in Test cricket history, scoring 337 against the West Indies in 1958. Contributed as a captain and played a vital role in several memorable matches.

Continue Reading

Alphonse Mouzon

Jazz drummer and album producer
Born
November 21st, 1948 77 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 68 years old

Alphonse Mouzon was an American jazz drummer and producer influential in the jazz fusion genre. He collaborated with various prominent musicians and was a key figure in the development of the genre during the 1970s. Mouzon played with celebrated artists such as McCoy Tyner and Miles Davis, contributing to numerous albums that shaped modern jazz. His own recordings also helped popularize jazz fusion, particularly with the album "The Essence of Mystery." Additionally, he founded his own record label and composed music that featured a blend of jazz, rock, and funk elements.

Continue Reading

Valdon Dowiyogo

Nauruan politician and former president
Born
August 31st, 1968 57 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 48 years old

Served as the President of Nauru from 2003 to 2004 and again in 2004. Held various positions within the Nauruan government and was instrumental in the management and governance of Nauru during times of significant economic challenges. Worked on issues related to public finance and international relations, particularly in the context of Nauru's unique standing in the Pacific region. Participated in efforts to stabilize the economy and address the challenges posed by the country's reliance on phosphate mining.

Continue Reading