What Happened This Year 2016

People Who Died in 2016

Dwight Jones

Basketball player for the Houston Rockets
Born
February 27th, 1952 74 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 64 years old

A professional basketball player played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) primarily for the Houston Rockets. Entered the league after being selected in the 1973 NBA Draft. Played as a forward and made a significant contribution to the Rockets' performance during his tenure. Jones was part of a team known for its competitive spirit in the NBA during the 1970s.

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Mike Oxley

American lawyer and politician
Born
February 11th, 1944 82 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 72 years old

Served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1995 to 2007. Represented Ohio's 4th congressional district. Played a significant role in the passage of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act in 2002, which established new regulations for public company accounting and auditing. Prior to Congress, worked as a lawyer and served in the Ohio state government, including roles in the Ohio State Senate.

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Otis Clay

American singer-songwriter, soul artist
Born
February 11th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1942, a prominent figure in the soul music genre, recognized for powerful vocal performances and emotive lyrics. Early career involved recording gospel music before transitioning to secular soul. Achieved widespread acclaim with hallmark tracks and collaborated with various artists throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Notable for contributions to the Chicago music scene, blending soul with a unique style that resonated with audiences. Inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, underscoring significant influence in music.

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Paul Elvstrøm

Danish Olympic Yachtsman and Sailor
Born
February 25th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1928, a prominent yachtsman won four Olympic gold medals in sailing. Competed in the Finn class at the Olympics held in 1948 in London, 1952 in Helsinki, 1956 in Melbourne, and 1960 in Rome. Established a reputation for excellence and innovation in sailing techniques. Contributed to the development of sailing equipment and authored books on sailing strategies. Further engaged in the sport through event organization and promotion, influencing future generations of sailors.

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Jayalalithaa

Indian actress and Tamil Nadu politician
Born
February 24th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 68 years old

An Indian actress and politician, served as the 16th Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. Entered the film industry in the 1960s, becoming a leading actress in Tamil cinema, with notable performances in films like "Vennira Aadai" and "Deiva Magan". Transitioned to politics in the 1980s, joining the AIADMK party founded by M.G. Ramachandran. Rose to prominence as a political leader, becoming Chief Minister multiple times during her career. Focused on welfare programs and initiatives for women and children during her tenure.

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Steven Hill

American actor known for Law & Order
Born
February 24th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 94 years old

An American actor, notable for a career spanning several decades in film and television. Made an early television appearance in 'Studio One' before gaining recognition for performances in various dramatic roles. Most prominently portrayed District Attorney Adam Schiff in the long-running television series 'Law & Order,' appearing in the show from its inception in 1990 until 2000. Hill's work extended into film, with notable roles in productions such as 'The Greatest Story Ever Told' and 'The Firm.' A dedicated performer, he became respected for his ability to bring depth and authenticity to characters across various genres.

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Radu Câmpeanu

Romanian politician and political leader
Born
February 28th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 94 years old

Born in Romania, served as a prominent political figure during the transition from communism to democracy. Co-founded the National Liberal Party (PNL) and played a significant role in its revival after the fall of the communist regime. Elected as the first president of the PNL during this transitional period, emphasized democratic values and market reforms. Engaged in political activities leading to Romania's integration into European structures and promoted civil society initiatives.

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Wolfgang Suschitzky

Cinematographer for 'The 39 Steps'
Born
August 29th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 104 years old

Austrian-English cinematographer and photographer contributed to the film industry with a notable career spanning several decades. Worked primarily in Britain, recognized for cinematography on projects including 'The 39 Steps' and 'The Man Who Knew Too Much'. Early life began in Vienna, later emigrated to England before World War II. During the war, served as a cameraman and photographer for the British Ministry of Information. Post-war career included collaborations with prominent directors, showcasing a distinct visual style that enhanced narrative storytelling in cinema. Also engaged in photography, producing striking portraits and landscapes throughout his career.

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Ralph Hauenstein

American businessman and philanthropist
Born
March 20th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 104 years old

Founded the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies at Grand Valley State University. Played a pivotal role in the development of the Great Lakes shipping industry. Contributed significantly to various charitable organizations, focusing on education and community development.

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