What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

George Coyne

Astronomer and theologian, Vatican role
Born
January 19th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 87 years old

An American priest and astronomer, focused on the intersection of science and religion. Served as the director of the Vatican Observatory from 1978 to 2006, contributing to the dialogue on faith and scientific inquiry. Engaged in research on planetary atmospheres and habitability. Published various articles and books addressing the relationship between faith and science, particularly in the context of modern cosmology.

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Dennis Ralston

Tennis player and Wimbledon champion
Born
July 27th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 78 years old

Achieved success as a professional tennis player during the 1960s and 1970s. Ralston contributed significantly to American tennis, particularly in doubles. Won the Wimbledon doubles title in 1960. Also reached the semifinals of the U.S. Open in singles in 1966. Served as a coach and mentor to future tennis players, influencing the next generation. Worked as a broadcaster and tennis commentator, providing insights into the sport's intricacies.

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Barry Tuckwell

Horn player and music educator
Born
March 5th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent horn player and educator who significantly advanced the status of the French horn. Tuckwell studied at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and gained recognition as a principal horn with several prestigious orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra. He performed as a soloist with noted orchestras around the world and recorded extensively, contributing to the repertoire for the horn. As an educator, he taught at several institutions, influencing generations of musicians through masterclasses and private instruction.

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Keith Critchlow

Architect and co-founder of Temenos Academy
Born
March 16th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 87 years old

An architect and academic with a significant contribution to architectural education, co-founded Temenos Academy, which emphasizes the integration of traditional and contemporary approaches to architecture and design. His work focused on the spiritual dimensions of architecture and the importance of beauty in built environments. Authored several influential books, including 'Order in Space', discussing the principles of architectural design and geometry. Engaged in teaching and lecturing internationally on the philosophy and practice of architecture.

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Claude Bolling

Pianist and composer of jazz music
Born
April 10th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 90 years old

This French pianist and composer specialized in jazz and classical music. In the 1970s, collaborated with renowned jazz artist Jean-Pierre Rampal to produce a series of successful albums that blended classical and jazz styles. Achieved commercial success with the album 'Suite for Flute and Jazz Piano', which showcased a fusion of genres. Contributed to film music, scoring soundtracks for various movies. Also was an accomplished performer, participating in numerous concert tours across Europe and the United States.

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Phil Niekro

Baseball player and manager with knuckleball
Born
April 1st, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1939, a prominent baseball player and manager, primarily recognized for an exceptional career as a knuckleball pitcher. Played major league baseball for teams like the Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves and the New York Yankees, spanning over 20 seasons. Accumulated more than 300 career wins, making him one of the few pitchers to achieve this milestone. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1997, marking the recognition of a significant contribution to the sport. Later transitioned to coaching, offering insights on pitching mechanics and strategies.

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Heather Couper

Astronomer and physicist; science communicator
Born
June 2nd, 1949 75 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 71 years old

An English astronomer and physicist specialized in astronomy outreach and education. Played a significant role in popularizing science through numerous television programs and public lectures. Worked with the British National Space Centre and contributed to various publications related to space science. Served as a director of campaigns promoting space exploration and astronomy.

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Katsuya Nomura

Baseball player and manager in Japan
Born
June 29th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent figure in Japanese baseball, played as a catcher and achieved considerable success as both a player and manager. Debuted with the Makoto Suiun in 1951 and later played for the Nankai Hawks, where significant contributions led to multiple championships. Transitioned into management after retirement, guiding teams including the Rakuten Golden Eagles to improved performances. Recognized for setting records in home runs and RBIs during a distinguished playing career.

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John Karlen

Actor in Dark Shadows and other series
Born
May 28th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1933, this American actor gained prominence through performances in television and film. His most notable role was as Willie Loomis in the gothic soap opera Dark Shadows, which aired from 1966 to 1971. The character became a fan favorite, contributing to the show's cult status. In addition to Dark Shadows, the actor appeared in various other TV series such as The Streets of San Francisco and Cagney & Lacey, showcasing a range of characters. Throughout the career, participation in stage productions further illustrated versatility as a performer. The contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized with various accolades.

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