What Happened This Year 2016

People Who Died in 2016

Michael Walter

German luger, Olympic gold medalist
Born
March 12th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 57 years old

Competed in the sport of luge, achieving significant success in international competitions. Participated in the Winter Olympics and secured a gold medal in the men's doubles event. Won multiple medals at the FIL World Luge Championships, establishing a strong reputation in the sport.

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Chris Amon

New Zealand Formula One driver with Ferrari
Born
July 20th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2016 9 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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Keith Emerson

Pianist and composer of progressive rock
Born
November 2nd, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent pianist and keyboard player, contributed significantly to the progressive rock genre. Co-founded the band Emerson, Lake & Palmer, which achieved commercial success in the 1970s. Innovatively combined classical music elements with rock, earning acclaim for virtuosic performances and elaborate compositions. Released several solo albums and collaborated with various artists throughout his career, showcasing a range of musical styles.

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Forbes Carlile

Australian pentathlete and Olympic coach
Born
June 3rd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 95 years old

Competed in modern pentathlon at the 1948 London Olympics. Later became an influential coach, developing training programs for athletes. Contributed to the growth of modern pentathlon in Australia. Established a legacy through coaching and mentoring young athletes.

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Simon Ramo

American physicist and engineer
Born
May 7th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 103 years old

Contributions to the field of physics and engineering influenced advancements in technology, especially in aerospace and military applications. Co-founded the aerospace company Ramo-Wooldridge Corporation, which played a key role in the development of the Polaris missile. Played a vital role in the development of the first successful inertial guidance system used in missiles. Received the National Medal of Technology and Innovation for significant contributions to engineering and technology throughout a distinguished career.

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Věra Čáslavská

Czech gymnast and Olympic champion
Born
May 3rd, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent gymnast from Czechoslovakia, major accomplishments took place during the 1960s. Achieved significant success at the Olympic Games, winning a total of seven gold medals. Dominated the 1968 Olympics, securing four gold medals amidst political turmoil. After retirement, transitioned into coaching and was actively involved in promoting gymnastics in the country.

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Dave Swarbrick

Singer-songwriter and fiddler
Born
April 5th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2016 9 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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Thorbjörn Fälldin

Prime Minister of Sweden, farmer
Born
April 24th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 90 years old

A farmer and politician served as the 27th Prime Minister of Sweden from 1976 to 1982. Launched a political career in the Center Party, focusing on rural issues and decentralization. Undertook major initiatives in environmental sustainability and agrarian policy while in office. Navigated through economic challenges and the energy crisis of the 1970s, promoting nuclear power and alternative energy sources. Retired from active politics after serving as a key figure in Swedish politics for several decades, emphasizing rural interests and local governance.

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Peter Hintze

German politician and public official
Born
April 25th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent figure in German politics, served as a member of the Christian Democratic Union. Held various positions within the government, including Deputy Chairman of the CDU. Contributed to the development of policies impacting economic and social issues. Actively participated in the Bundestag, Germany's federal parliament, focusing on areas such as technology and energy.

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