What Happened This Year 2016

People Who Died in 2016

Janet Waldo

Voice actress in cartoons and anime
Born
February 4th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 96 years old

Enjoyed a long career in voice acting, contributing significantly to animated series and films. Voiced the character Judy Jetson in the classic series 'The Jetsons.' Provided voice work for numerous other cartoon characters, including parts in 'Scooby-Doo,' 'The Jetsons,' and 'The Flintstones.' Active in radio and television, engaged audiences across multiple generations.

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Cliff Michelmore

Television host of 'Grandstand'
Born
December 11th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 97 years old

A prominent television host and producer, who played a significant role in British broadcasting. Initially worked as a newsreader before transitioning to entertainment. In 1958, began hosting the sports program 'Grandstand' which became a staple of Sunday afternoon viewing. Led this program for over 30 years, establishing a strong rapport with audiences. Produced and presented various documentaries and special events, contributing to the cultural landscape of British television.

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Gary Loizzo

Guitarist and record producer for Styx
Born
August 16th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 71 years old

American guitarist, singer, recording engineer, and record producer contributed to the rock band Styx, achieving commercial success in the 1970s and 1980s. Worked extensively as a producer and engineer, influencing sound production standards. Known for involvement in producing several albums and singles that reached the top of the charts. Also performed as a member of the band, showcasing skills as both a vocalist and musician.

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Thomas Schelling

Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 14th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 95 years old

An American economist made significant contributions to game theory, particularly in the context of conflict and cooperation. Schelling's work analyzed strategic behavior in economics and military strategy, providing insights that influenced both public policy and academic research. His notable publications include 'The Strategy of Conflict' and 'Micromotives and Macrobehavior'. Schelling's theories have been applied to various fields, including international relations, economics, and environmental policy. In 2005, he received the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences for his pioneering analysis of conflict and cooperation through game-theory methodology.

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Michel Butor

French author and literary critic
Born
September 14th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 90 years old

An influential figure in the literary world, Butor contributed significantly to the Nouveau Roman movement. His writing style is characterized by innovative narrative techniques and exploration of literary forms. The novel 'Passing Time' exemplifies this approach, weaving together various perspectives and disjointed timelines. In addition to novels, extensive critical writings and essays on literature highlighted the shifts in 20th-century thought. Butor collaborated with artists across various disciplines, enriching both literature and art through interdisciplinary dialogue.

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Russ Nixon

MLB catcher and coach for the Red Sox
Born
February 19th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 81 years old

Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball. Spent parts of seven seasons with the Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins from 1957 to 1963. Transitioned into a coaching career after retirement from playing, including a role as a coach for the Red Sox. Contributed to the development of players in various coaching positions throughout the years.

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Marisol Escobar

Sculptor known for wooden sculptures
Born
May 22nd, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 86 years old

Born in France, Escobar gained prominence as a sculptor known for creating wooden sculptures that often reflected themes of identity and femininity. Moving to the United States in the 1950s, her work became associated with the Pop Art movement. She is recognized for combining traditional craftsmanship with modern artistic expression, exhibiting frequently in galleries and museums across the U.S. Escobar received accolades throughout her career, including the prestigious National Medal of Arts in 1989. Her sculptures utilized everyday materials and incorporated elements of folk art, bridging cultural influences from her Franco-Venezuelan heritage.

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Lonnie Mack

American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
July 18th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 75 years old

A significant figure in rock music, contributed to the genre through guitar playing and songwriting. Gained prominence in the 1960s with the hit instrumental 'Memphis' and the album 'The Wham of That Memphis Man!'. Influenced a generation of musicians with a blend of rock, blues, and country. Mack’s guitar work showcased a unique style that combined techniques from Chicago blues and rockabilly, leading to a revival of interest in electric guitar. Continued to perform and record music into the 21st century.

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