What Happened This Year 2016

People Who Died in 2016

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.

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Lewie Steinberg

Bass Player for Booker T. & the MG's
Born
September 13th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 83 years old

A bass player contributed significantly to the genre of soul music, primarily through work with the iconic band Booker T. & the MG's. Active during the 1960s, performed on several influential recordings, including the track 'Green Onions,' which became a major hit and helped define the sound of Stax Records. The band served as the house band for Stax, backing numerous artists and gaining recognition for its distinct sound. Besides performing, also participated in various recording sessions that shaped the era’s musical landscape.

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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.

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George Weidenfeld

Austrian-English journalist and publisher
Born
September 13th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 97 years old

Born in Austria, a significant role in journalism and publishing spanned several decades. Co-founded Weidenfeld & Nicolson, which became a prominent publishing house in the UK. Contributed to various humanitarian efforts, particularly related to refugee support, during and after World War II. Served as a prolific writer and commentator on political and cultural issues. Received the honorary title of Baron in the UK.

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Peter Ruckman

American pastor and educator of theology
Born
November 19th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 95 years old

Served as a pastor and educator, focusing on Independent Baptist ministries. Founded the Pensacola Bible Institute, which became a key institution for educating pastors and laypeople in Baptist theology. Authored numerous works on biblical interpretation and church practices, influencing many within the Independent Baptist movement. Engaged in various debates regarding scripture and theology, emphasizing a literal interpretation of the Bible.

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Guy Clark

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
November 6th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent figure in American country music, contributed significantly to the genre through songwriting and performance. Gained recognition for storytelling within lyrics, capturing rural life and personal experiences. Released several acclaimed albums such as 'Old No. 1' and 'Dublin Blues'. Worked with various artists and influenced many in the music industry.

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Denys Wilkinson

English physicist and academic physicist
Born
September 5th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 94 years old

A physicist and academic specialized in nuclear physics. Contributed significantly to the development of the field, particularly in relation to nuclear reactors and particle physics. Served as a professor at the University of Oxford and held several prestigious academic positions. Conducted extensive research that advanced the understanding of nuclear processes and their applications. Involved in various scientific organizations and published numerous papers throughout the career.

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Frank Armitage

Artist known for his paintings and murals
Born
September 5th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 92 years old

An Australian-American artist worked primarily in painting and muralism. Born in 1924, created a body of work that reflects influences from both Australian and American art styles. Contributed significantly to the visual art scene, with a focus on landscapes and abstract compositions. Also served as an educator, sharing artistic techniques with students. His work has been exhibited in various galleries, demonstrating a blend of personal vision and cultural motifs.

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