What Happened This Year 2018

People Who Died in 2018

David Pearson

American race car driver, three-time champion
Born
December 22nd, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent figure in American stock car racing, achieved significant success in the NASCAR series. Secured three NASCAR Cup Series championships during the 1960s and 1970s. Known for intense rivalries with other drivers and a strategic approach to racing. Dominated many races with a remarkable record of wins, particularly in the 1960s and early 1970s. Competed primarily for the Wood Brothers Racing team and is celebrated for his contributions to the sport and his iconic status among fans.

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Ray Emery

Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Born
September 28th, 1982 42 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 36 years old

An ice hockey player, celebrated for contributions as a goaltender. Played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for teams including the Ottawa Senators and the Chicago Blackhawks. Achieved significant success with the Blackhawks, winning the Stanley Cup in 2013. Recognized for strong performances both in the regular season and playoffs. Legacy includes primary role in securing the Blackhawks' championship.

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Robert Venturi

Architect and academic influential in postmodernism
Born
June 25th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 93 years old

An architect and academic contributed significantly to postmodern architecture. Developed the concept of 'less is a bore,' challenging prevailing modernist tenets. Founded the firm Venturi, Scott Brown and Associates, which became a significant player in the American architectural scene. Authored influential texts, including 'Complexity and Contradiction in Architecture,' which offered a critical view of architectural modernism and advocated for richer, more ornate designs. Served as a professor at the University of Pennsylvania, mentoring future architects and influencing architectural education.

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Dwight Clark

American football player with Super Bowl win
Born
January 8th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 61 years old

An American football player played as a wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers from 1979 to 1987. Achieved significant success during the 1981 season when the team won Super Bowl XVI. Caught a pivotal pass in the 1981 NFC Championship Game, later known as 'The Catch', which is regarded as one of the most memorable plays in NFL history. Contributed to the 49ers' success in multiple seasons, showcasing reliability and skill on the field.

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Lassie Lou Ahern

American actress in silent films
Born
June 25th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 98 years old

Began a career in the film industry as a child actress in the silent film era. Featured in films produced by Hal Roach and starred alongside notable actors of the time. Transitioned to sound films, continuing to act during the early 1930s. Later work included appearances on television. Built a reputation as a talented performer during childhood in the entertainment sector.

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Claude Seignolle

French author of horror fiction
Born
June 25th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 101 years old

A prominent French author focused on horror and supernatural fiction. Published numerous works that blended folklore with chilling narratives. Seignolle's stories often drew inspiration from France's rural traditions and legends. Contributed to the genre of fantastic literature and earned recognition among enthusiasts of horror fiction.

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Ingvar Kamprad

Swedish businessman, founder of IKEA
Born
March 30th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 92 years old

Established IKEA in 1943, initially selling small items such as pens and wallets. Expanded the business to include flat-pack furniture, which revolutionized the furniture retail industry. Developed a unique assembly model that allowed for cost reduction and increased accessibility. The brand became synonymous with affordable, modern design and home furnishings across the globe.

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Ermanno Olmi

Italian director of 'The Tree of Wooden Clogs'
Born
July 24th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 87 years old

An Italian director, screenwriter, and cinematographer, contributed significantly to the Italian cinema landscape. Began career in the 1950s as a documentarian and gradually transitioned to feature films. Gained acclaim with the 1978 film 'The Tree of Wooden Clogs', which won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Best recognized for a style that merged realism with a poetic sensibility, often depicting the lives of ordinary people. Continued to create films that reflected social issues and human experiences until late in life.

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Hal Greer

Professional Basketball Player, NBA All-Star
Born
June 26th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 82 years old

A professional basketball player played primarily for the Syracuse Nationals in the NBA. Greer was a guard who contributed significantly to the team's success during the 1960s. He was a key player in the Nationals' 1967 championship run, demonstrating exceptional skill and scoring ability. Greer also earned multiple All-Star selections throughout his career, showcasing consistent performance and leadership on the court.

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