What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Howard Hodgkin

British painter celebrated for abstract art
Born
August 6th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
March 9th, 2017 8 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent British painter, contributions spanned several decades, focusing primarily on abstract art. Influenced by his travels and personal experiences, utilized color and form to express different emotions and ideas. Developed a signature style characterized by vibrant colors and bold brush strokes. Received numerous accolades throughout a distinguished career, including the Turner Prize in 1985. Appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire in 1992 for services to the arts.

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Amy Krouse Rosenthal

Author of children's literature and memoirs
Born
April 29th, 1965 59 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2017 8 years ago — 51 years old

An American author, widely published in children's literature, essays, and memoirs. Gained significant attention for a New York Times essay titled 'You May Want to Marry My Husband,' published shortly before death. Wrote several beloved children's books, including 'Duck! Rabbit!' and 'Little Pea,' known for engaging storytelling and whimsical illustrations. Contributed to anthologies and produced works that explored themes of love, family, and loss.

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Chuck Berry

Rock and roll guitarist and songwriter
Born
October 18th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2017 7 years ago — 90 years old

A guitarist, singer, and songwriter who played a pivotal role in the creation of rock and roll music. Berry's career began in the 1950s, and his first major hit, 'Maybellene,' established the foundations of the genre. He developed a distinctive style characterized by clever lyrics and a unique guitar sound. Berry's performances were often marked by his showmanship, including the signature 'duck walk.' Some iconic songs include 'Johnny B. Goode' and 'Roll Over Beethoven.' His music has influenced countless artists across multiple generations, solidifying a legacy as a pioneer of rock music.

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David Rockefeller

Billionaire philanthropist and banker
Born
June 12th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2017 7 years ago — 101 years old

A prominent banker and philanthropist, played a significant role in global finance and philanthropy. Was the chairman and CEO of Chase Manhattan Bank for over a decade. Contributed to numerous cultural and educational institutions, establishing programs that focused on art, education, and public policy. Actively participated in diplomatic efforts through initiatives like the Trilateral Commission, which aimed to enhance cooperation among North America, Europe, and Asia. Actively supported various philanthropic organizations, donating millions to causes such as health, education, and the arts.

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Martin McGuinness

Irish republican leader and politician
Born
May 23rd, 1950 74 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2017 7 years ago — 66 years old

Held the position of deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland from 2007 to 2017. Played a key role in the peace process, contributing to the negotiation of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. Served as a member of the Legislative Assembly for the Derry constituency and was a senior figure in the Sinn Féin party. Engaged in various political discussions and initiatives aimed at improving community relations in Northern Ireland.

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Chuck Barris

Game show host and producer of The Gong Show
Born
June 3rd, 1929 95 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2017 7 years ago — 87 years old

An influential game show host and producer, this individual created several popular television shows, shaping the landscape of American entertainment. The Gong Show, which premiered in 1976, showcased amateur talent and became a cultural phenomenon. This figure also developed The Dating Game and The Newlywed Game, both of which contributed to the rise of celebrity culture and reality television. Throughout a prolific career in the television industry, this person had a unique approach to producing shows that entertained millions and pushed the boundaries of traditional game shows.

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Mike Hall

British cyclist and endurance racer
Born
1981 44 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2017 7 years ago — 36 years old

A prominent figure in ultra-endurance cycling, this individual gained recognition for long-distance races across various terrains. Achievements include participating in the Tour Divide, an extreme race spanning more than 2,700 miles along the Rocky Mountains. Established a reputation as a passionate advocate for the sport, contributing to the community through various initiatives. Notably, he organized and facilitated numerous cycling events, encouraging others to pursue endurance cycling and adventure. The commitment to sharing knowledge about long-distance cycling fostered a new generation of cyclists.

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Colin Dexter

English author of detective fiction
Born
September 29th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2017 7 years ago — 86 years old

An English author wrote a series of detective novels featuring the character Inspector Morse. The series was adapted into a successful television show that aired from 1987 to 2000. Dexter's literary career began in the 1970s, with the first Morse novel, 'Last Bus to Woodstock', published in 1975. The character was distinguished by his intellect and love for classical music, making the stories unique in the genre. Dexter received multiple awards for his writing, including the prestigious Cartier Diamond Dagger award for lifetime achievement in crime writing.

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Miroslava Breach

Investigative Journalist and Reporter
Born
1962 63 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2017 7 years ago — 55 years old

An investigative journalist from Mexico specialized in drug trafficking and organized crime. Breach worked for multiple publications, including the newspaper, La Jornada. Focused on issues impacting the Mexican border region, she reported on violence and corruption linked to the drug wars. Breach received recognition for her courage in facing threats while covering sensitive issues. Tragically, her career was cut short when she was murdered in 2017, highlighting the dangers faced by journalists in Mexico.

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