What Happened This Year 2018

People Who Died in 2018

Leonid Kadeniuk

Ukrainian astronaut and general
Born
January 28th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 67 years old

Served as a general in the Ukrainian Air Force and completed training as a pilot. Participated in the STS-87 mission as a payload specialist, becoming the first astronaut from Ukraine to fly in space. His mission aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia in 1997 focused on scientific research and experiments. Contributed to the development of Ukraine’s aerospace capabilities.

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Patricia Morison

American actress and singer in Broadway
Born
March 19th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 103 years old

Born in 1915, an actress and singer gained prominence in Broadway productions. Starred in the original production of 'Kiss Me, Kate' as Lilli Vanessi, which earned a Tony nomination. Also featured in productions such as 'Zenda' and 'The King and I.' Transitioned to film and television, appearing in movies like 'The Great Ziegfeld.' Worked extensively in both stage and screen, gaining recognition for a powerful voice and strong stage presence. In later years, continued to perform and participate in various interviews reflecting on a celebrated career, contributing to the arts until retirement.

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Idrissa Ouedraogo

Burkinabé film director and producer
Born
January 21st, 1954 71 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent Burkinabé director and producer, contributed significantly to African cinema. Directed the notable film 'Yaaba,' which received international acclaim and won numerous awards. Established a reputation for tackling socio-political themes within African societies through cinematic storytelling. Actively participated in film festivals across Africa and beyond, promoting African culture and dialogue through film. Played a vital role in the growth of the Burkinabé film industry and mentored emerging filmmakers.

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Arvid Carlsson

Swedish pharmacologist and Nobel laureate
Born
January 25th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 95 years old

Contributions to neuroscience and pharmacology included significant research on dopamine and its role in the brain. Developed the concept of neurotransmission and elucidated the mechanism of action of various psychotropic drugs. Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine awarded in 2000 for discoveries regarding dopamine and its implications in movement disorders, particularly Parkinson's disease. Held positions in academia and various scientific organizations throughout a lengthy career.

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Reynaldo Bignone

41st President of Argentina
Born
January 21st, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 90 years old

Served as the 41st President of Argentina from 1982 to 1983 during a transitional period following military rule. Led a government that oversaw the return to democratic elections after years of dictatorship. His presidency occurred during a time of significant economic challenges in the country, including inflation and deep social issues. After leaving office, faced various legal challenges related to human rights violations during the military regime.

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Pete Shelley

Singer-songwriter and guitarist of Buzzcocks
Born
April 17th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 63 years old

A singer-songwriter and guitarist, became a prominent figure in the punk rock music scene during the late 1970s. Co-founded the band Buzzcocks, which emerged from the UK punk movement. The band released influential tracks such as 'Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone You Shouldn't've)' and 'What Do I Get?'. Later pursued a solo career, achieving success with the hit single 'Homosapien' in 1981. Shelley’s songwriting often tackled themes of love and identity, making significant contributions to the punk and new wave genres. Continued to perform and release music until passing in 2018.

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Luis Valbuena

Baseball player with MLB experience
Born
November 30th, 1985 39 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 33 years old

Played professional baseball primarily as a third baseman and first baseman. Career spanned from 2010 to 2019, with notable stints at the Chicago Cubs, Houston Astros, and Los Angeles Angels. Valbuena showcased strong offensive skills, contributing to his teams’ success in Major League Baseball. He played in over 800 games throughout his career, emphasizing consistent performance at the plate and solid defensive capabilities.

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Tito Francona

Baseball player and coach with notable MLB career
Born
November 4th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1933, this individual played major league baseball primarily as an outfielder and first baseman. Debuting in 1956, played for teams including the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago White Sox, and Boston Red Sox. During a career spanning over a decade, achieved a .272 batting average with 1,436 hits and 1,045 runs batted in. After retiring as a player, transitioned into coaching, serving as a coach for various MLB teams, including the Baltimore Orioles and the Philadelphia Phillies.

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Charles K. Kao

Physicist and engineer, Nobel laureate
Born
November 4th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 85 years old

A Chinese physicist and engineer contributed significantly to the development of fiber optics technology. His research in the 1960s laid the foundation for high-capacity telecommunications networks. Kao's innovative work demonstrated how light can be transmitted through fibers, leading to advancements in global communication systems. His groundbreaking contributions earned recognition within the scientific community and beyond, resulting in receipt of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2009. This achievement highlighted the importance of fiber optics in modern telecommunication infrastructures.

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