What Happened This Year 2018

People Who Died in 2018

Hugh McDowell

English cellist and Electric Light Orchestra member
Born
July 31st, 1953 71 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 65 years old

McDowell was a cellist who contributed to the Electric Light Orchestra (ELO). He played on several of the band's albums, enhancing the orchestral rock sound that characterized their music. McDowell also performed with other artists and participated in various music projects throughout his career. His work with ELO included significant tracks that blended classical and rock elements, allowing the band to achieve commercial success. McDowell's artistry and musicianship left a lasting impression on the music scene during the 1970s and 1980s.

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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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Jeremy Heywood

Economist and civil servant
Born
December 31st, 1961 63 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 57 years old

An English economist and civil servant, contributed significantly to the UK government. Served as the Head of the Civil Service and the Cabinet Secretary from 2012 until retirement in 2018. Worked in various capacities within the UK government since the 1980s, providing expertise in economic policy and administration. Involved in key government decisions and strategic planning.

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Robin Leach

Television host of 'Lifestyles of the Rich'
Born
August 29th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 77 years old

An English journalist and television host, this individual gained recognition for hosting the reality television series 'Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous,' which explored the lives of wealthy celebrities. The program aired from 1984 to 1995 and highlighted lavish lifestyles, providing viewers with an inside look at the opulent lifestyles of affluent individuals. Throughout a career spanning several decades, this individual worked for various media outlets as a columnist and reporter, covering a range of topics. Later efforts included hosting a show on HGTV and contributing to reality television projects. A notable figure in entertainment journalism, this individual played a key role in shaping celebrity culture in the late 20th century.

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Vladimir Voinovich

Russian author and satirist, 'Moscow 2042'
Born
September 26th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 86 years old

An influential Russian author and poet, contributed significantly to literature, particularly through satirical works. Best recognized for the novel 'Moscow 2042', which presented a dystopian vision of the future through a comedic lens. Critiqued the Soviet system and addressed themes of bureaucratic absurdity. His literary career extended across several decades, producing essays, poetry, and fiction that explored societal and political issues. Voinovich's work often reflected his experiences as a dissident and expatriate during the Soviet era, leading to his exile and later return to Russia.

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Paul D. Boyer

Biochemist, Nobel Prize in Chemistry 1997
Born
July 31st, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 100 years old

Contributions to biochemistry included research on ATP synthase, a critical enzyme in energy metabolism. Worked at the University of California, Los Angeles, and published extensively in scientific journals. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1997 for elucidating the enzymatic mechanism underlying ATP synthesis. Collaborated with other scientists in biochemical research and education.

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Mies Bouwman

Television host and pioneering broadcaster
Born
December 31st, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent Dutch television host, highly regarded for contributions to the broadcasting industry in the Netherlands. Started career in the 1950s, quickly becoming a household name. Hosted numerous programs, including the beloved show 'Mies en Scene', which blended entertainment with cultural topics. Contributed to the development of television in the country, influencing many future presenters. Recognized for pioneering formats and engaging audiences through innovative programming until retirement.

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Earl Bakken

Creator of the first wearable pacemaker
Born
January 10th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 94 years old

An American inventor developed the first wearable cardiac pacemaker in 1958, revolutionizing the treatment of heart arrhythmias. The invention allowed patients to lead more active lives while managing their heart conditions. Founded the Medtronic company with his brother, significantly influencing advancements in medical technology. In 1992, established the Bakken Museum in Minneapolis to promote the history and art of medicine and the impact of electricity on health. Contributed to various innovations in biomedical engineering throughout his career.

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Paul Junger Witt

Television director and producer of 'The Golden Girls'
Born
March 20th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 75 years old

A director and producer, this individual contributed significantly to the television landscape. Active in the industry from the 1970s to the 2000s, work included production roles on various hit series. The most notable achievement includes producing the iconic sitcom 'The Golden Girls', which became a cultural touchstone. Other successful productions included 'Empty Nest' and 'The Golden Palace'. A graduate of the University of California, Berkeley.

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