What Happened This Year 2016

People Who Died in 2016

Walter Swinburn

English jockey and trainer of racehorses
Born
August 7th, 1961 64 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 55 years old

Started a career as a jockey in the early 1980s, achieving significant success in horse racing. Won the prestigious Derby at Epsom in 1983 riding Shergar, who became a legendary racehorse. Transitioned into training horses after retiring from riding. Continued to contribute to the sport through training and mentoring new jockeys.

Continue Reading

Hans Ragnemalm

Swedish lawyer and judge specializing in law
Born
March 30th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 76 years old

An influential figure in the Swedish legal system, served as a judge and contributed significantly to legal practices and reforms. Ragnemalm held various roles in the judiciary and was involved in shaping legal frameworks. His work included participation in high-profile cases and engagement in judicial governance, focusing on the enhancement of legal standards in Sweden.

Continue Reading

Valeriy Zuyev

Ukrainian football player and manager
Born
November 7th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 64 years old

A Ukrainian footballer and manager, played as a defender. Started career at FC Dynamo Kyiv, where significant contributions led to winning multiple Soviet Top League titles. Transitioned to manage several clubs after retirement, including FC Dynamo Kyiv and FC Kryvbas Kryvyi Rih. Extended influence in Ukrainian football through coaching roles, focusing on youth development and tactical strategies.

Continue Reading

Bodil Malmsten

Swedish poet and author of 'Sveket'
Born
August 19th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 72 years old

An author and poet, contributed significantly to Swedish literature. Published several acclaimed poetry collections and novels. Gained recognition for the novel 'Sveket', which explores personal and societal issues through a compelling narrative. Engaged in various literary forms, including essays and plays, showcasing a broad literary talent. Received several literary awards, marking a notable presence in contemporary Swedish writing.

Continue Reading

Princess Ashraf of Iran

Iranian royal and diplomat
Born
October 26th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 97 years old

Born in Iran in 1919, a prominent member of the Pahlavi royal family. Actively engaged in various diplomatic and philanthropic efforts, focused on women's rights and education. Served as an ambassador and representative for Iran in multiple international organizations. Involved in political discussions and issues impacting Iran throughout the 20th century. Resided in several countries after the Iranian Revolution, continuing to advocate for Iranian issues on international platforms.

Continue Reading

Luis Salom

Spanish motorcycle racer with multiple wins
Born
August 7th, 1991 34 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 25 years old

A Spanish motorcycle racer, competed in various championships including Moto3 and Moto2. Achieved significant recognition for performances in the Moto3 World Championship, securing several podium finishes. Developed a reputation as a talented young rider with a promising career until a tragic incident cut it short. Involved in competitive racing from a young age, accumulated experience and skills across different racing events, including regional competitions and international circuits.

Continue Reading

Helena Benitez

Filipina academic and administrator
Born
June 27th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 102 years old

Contributed significantly to Philippine education through various academic roles and leadership positions. Served as the first woman president of the Philippine Women's University. Active in the promotion of women's rights and education reform. Played a key role in the implementation of educational policies that favored equal access to education. Involved in multiple organizations focused on women's empowerment and community service.

Continue Reading

Bob Vanatta

Basketball coach and mentor
Born
July 7th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2016 9 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.

Continue Reading

Nikolaus Harnoncourt

Cellist and conductor of early music
Born
December 6th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2016 9 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.

Continue Reading