What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Jon Hendricks

American jazz vocalist and lyricist
Born
September 16th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 96 years old

Contributed significantly to the development of vocalese, a style of jazz where lyrics are set to instrumental solos. Collaborated with the innovative vocal group Lambert, Hendricks & Ross, which popularized this genre, and was instrumental in bringing vocal jazz to a broader audience. Recorded several influential albums, including 'Sing a Song of Basie' and 'The Hottest New Group in Jazz'. Acknowledged for his exceptional ability to blend skillful lyric writing with intricate jazz harmonies. His work spanned multiple decades, influencing future generations of musicians and vocalists.

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Fred Beckey

Mountaineer and climbing author
Born
January 14th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 94 years old

An influential mountaineer and author, contributed significantly to the climbing community through extensive first ascents and guidebooks. Wrote the seminal series 'Climbing in the Cascades' which detailed numerous climbs in the Pacific Northwest. Active in mountain climbing for over seven decades, completed numerous first ascents in North America and abroad. His passion for exploring remote peaks and documenting climbs inspired many climbers and adventurers. Beckey's life was dedicated to the pursuit of climbing and exploration, often leading expeditions to challenging terrains.

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Grant Hart

Singer-songwriter and guitarist, Hüsker Dü
Born
March 18th, 1961 64 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 56 years old

A singer-songwriter and guitarist from the United States, contributed significantly to the alternative rock scene. As a founding member of the influential band Hüsker Dü, collaborated on several groundbreaking albums during the 1980s. Hüsker Dü's sound combined elements of punk rock and melodic pop, paving the way for later alternative music. After the band disbanded, pursued a solo career, releasing several albums that showcased a different musical direction. Gained recognition for both songwriting and performances throughout the career.

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Liz Smith

American journalist and author
Born
February 2nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent journalist and author, this individual gained recognition through work as a columnist. Contributions included celebrity gossip and commentary, providing insights into the lives of public figures. The writing style was characterized by a conversational tone that resonated with readers. Published various books that compiled columns and offered personal perspectives on Hollywood and culture. Maintained a long-running column in the New York Post, drawing a substantial readership throughout the decades.

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Lotfi Zadeh

Mathematician and computer scientist, fuzzy logic founder
Born
February 4th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 96 years old

An Iranian-American mathematician and computer scientist contributed to mathematics and computer science, particularly in the development of fuzzy logic. Fuzzy logic introduced a new dimension to classical logic, allowing for reasoning with uncertainty and imprecision. This work laid the foundation for various applications in control systems, artificial intelligence, and decision-making processes. Zadeh's impact extended into multiple industries, including engineering and computer science, reshaping how systems analyze and interpret data.

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Jewel Plummer Cobb

Biologist and cancer researcher
Born
January 17th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 93 years old

Significant contributions were made in cancer research, particularly in understanding cellular development and behavior. Served as a professor of biological sciences and as an administrator at various institutions. Played a key role in promoting diversity in higher education, advocating for increased representation of minorities in the sciences.

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Marián Varga

Slovak organist and composer
Born
January 29th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 70 years old

Born in Slovakia, the individual made significant contributions to contemporary classical music as an organist and composer. This person specialized in creating unique works that blend traditional and modern musical elements. Over the years, the individual collaborated with various artists and ensembles, bringing a distinct style to each performance and composition. A key contributor to the Slovak music scene, the individual was also involved in numerous projects that showcased Slovak culture and history through music.

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Magnus Wenninger

Mathematician and author of polyhedra
Born
October 31st, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 98 years old

An American mathematician and author focused on polyhedral geometry. Contributed significantly to the study and classification of polyhedra through innovative techniques and writings. Published several influential books, including 'Spherical Models' which provided insights into mathematical models and visualization. Engaged in educational efforts to promote mathematics.

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Ángel Nieto

Motorcycle racer, 13-time world champion
Born
January 25th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 70 years old

One of the most successful motorcycle racers, achieved a remarkable career in the 125cc and 250cc categories. Competed extensively in the 1960s through the 1980s, securing titles that established a legacy in the motorsport community. Won a total of 13 world championships, a number that showcased exceptional skill and dedication to the sport. Participated for several teams, including Derbi and Yamaha, leaving an indelible mark on motorcycle racing history.

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