What Happened This Year 2018

People Who Died in 2018

Elfriede Rinkel

German SS officer during World War II
Born
July 14th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 96 years old

Served as an SS officer during World War II, participating in various military operations. Held a significant position within the SS, contributing to the administration and execution of policies aligned with the regime. Involved in activities that were part of the broader conflict of the war, facilitating the structures of the SS.

Continue Reading

Grigory Barenblatt

Russian mathematician and academic
Born
July 10th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 91 years old

Contributions in applied mathematics and fluid dynamics shaped many fields. Developed mathematical models for various physical phenomena. Authored several influential papers and books. Enhanced understanding of complex systems through innovative approaches. Pioneered work in fractal structures and turbulence.

Continue Reading

Leila Abashidze

Georgian actress in film and theater
Born
August 1st, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 89 years old

Born in Georgia, an actress gained recognition for work in theatre and cinema. Early career included performances in prominent Georgian theatrical productions. Achieved fame with roles in films during the 1950s and 1960s, particularly in 'The Wishing Tree' and 'The Legend of the White Stallion'. Contributed to the cultural landscape of Georgian performing arts through numerous performances. Directed and nurtured younger talent in the acting community, leaving a legacy within the theatre world.

Continue Reading

Mikhail Alperin

Ukrainian pianist and composer
Born
November 7th, 1956 68 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 62 years old

Born in Ukraine, this pianist and composer became prominent in the music scene, particularly known for blending various musical styles. Alperin was a member of the musical ensemble 'The Moscow Art Trio,' which combined jazz and classical influences. Residing in Norway later in life, contributions included solo works and collaborations with various artists across genres, showcasing a unique fusion of Eastern European folk elements and modern music. The artist's works often reflect a deep appreciation for cultural connections and innovative expression.

Continue Reading

Chuck Stevens

Baseball player, Chicago Cubs 1944
Born
July 10th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 100 years old

Played Major League Baseball for the Chicago Cubs in 1944. He began his professional career in the minor leagues before making his way to the Cubs. Stevens also played in the Western Association, showcasing skills as an outfielder. His tenure in the major leagues was relatively brief, but he remains a part of the Cubs' history.

Continue Reading

John Melcher

Veterinarian and U.S. Senator
Born
September 6th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 94 years old

Served as a veterinarian before entering politics. Represented Montana in the U.S. Senate from 1977 to 1989. Worked on agricultural and health issues, advocating for farmers and ranchers in the state. Held a prominent role in the Senate Agriculture Committee and participated in various health initiatives. Contributed to legislation that sought to improve rural health care access.

Continue Reading

Brenda Dean

Union leader and politician
Born
April 29th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 75 years old

Baroness Dean of Thornton-le-Fylde served as a prominent leader in the trade union movement in the United Kingdom. Held the position of General Secretary of the National Union of Public Employees (NUPE) from 1983 to 1992. Was a member of the House of Lords, contributing to discussions on various social and economic issues. Engaged in politics as a Labour Party member, influencing policies affecting workers' rights and conditions throughout her career.

Continue Reading

Rezső Nyers

Hungarian politician and statesman
Born
March 21st, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent Hungarian politician who held various positions in the government. Served as Minister of Finance and was influential in the economic policies of Hungary. Participated in numerous political reforms throughout the late 20th century, particularly in the period following the fall of communism. Involved with the Hungarian Socialist Workers' Party, contributing to the transition towards a multiparty system. Advocated for economic stability and social welfare during times of significant national change.

Continue Reading

Riccardo Giacconi

Astrophysicist and Nobel Prize winner
Born
October 6th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 87 years old

This astrophysicist and astronomer pioneered the field of X-ray astronomy. Contributions involved the development of X-ray telescopes that allowed for the study of celestial phenomena. Played a significant role in establishing the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2002 for contributions to the discovery of cosmic X-ray sources.

Continue Reading