What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

Steve Priest

Singer-songwriter and bass player of Sweet
Born
February 23rd, 1948 77 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1948 in England, a musician rose to prominence as the bassist and co-founder of the rock band Sweet. The band gained worldwide recognition in the 1970s with hits blending glam rock and pop music. The catchy single 'Ballroom Blitz' showcased the band's energetic style and stellar performances. The group also produced chart-topping songs like 'Fox on the Run' and 'Love is Like Oxygen,' helping define the glam rock era. Over the years, collaborated with various artists and continued to perform until later in life, contributing to the legacy of the genre.

Continue Reading

Dick Garmaker

Basketball player for the Lakers
Born
October 29th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 88 years old

Played professional basketball in the NBA primarily for the Minneapolis Lakers. Played as a forward and helped the team secure an NBA Championship title in 1954. Transitioned to a successful coaching career following retirement, leading various high school teams and helping to develop future athletes.

Continue Reading

Peter Green

English guitarist and Fleetwood Mac founder
Born
October 29th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 74 years old

Originated from England, a prominent musician emerged as a founding member of the rock band Fleetwood Mac. Contributed significantly as a guitarist and songwriter during the band's early years. Released influential albums, including 'Then Play On' in 1969, which showcased distinctive blues and rock styles. His style merged emotional depth with technical proficiency, leading to the band's early success. The musician later embarked on a solo career and was recognized for notable contributions to the blues genre. Suffered from mental health issues which affected career continuity but regained a measure of success in later years, influencing a new generation of musicians.

Continue Reading

Allan Fotheringham

Canadian journalist and newspaper columnist
Born
August 31st, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent Canadian journalist, contributed to several major newspapers and magazines throughout a long career. Played a significant role in shaping political commentary in Canada. Worked for the Globe and Mail, the Toronto Star, and Maclean's magazine, often recognized for editorial columns that provided insight into Canadian politics and society. Published several books, offering personal reflections and critiques on political events and figures. Reserved a unique voice in Canadian journalism, blending humor with keen observation.

Continue Reading

Tuomas Gerdt

Finnish soldier during World War II
Born
May 28th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1922, a soldier served in the Finnish army during World War II. Participated in the Continuation War against the Soviet Union from 1941 to 1944. Engaged in various battles, contributing to the defense of Finnish territory. Following the war, continued a military career and remained active in veterans' events.

Continue Reading

Warren Berlinger

American actor in film and television
Born
August 31st, 1937 87 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 83 years old

An actor with a career spanning several decades, primarily recognized for roles in television and film. Contributions include performances in the television series 'Happy Days' and 'The Love Boat'. Berlinger also appeared in films such as 'The Buddy Holly Story' and 'The Man with the Golden Gun'. Throughout his career, various roles showcased a range of characters, often bringing comedic elements to the performances. His work in the entertainment industry includes numerous guest appearances on popular shows.

Continue Reading

Shad Gaspard

American wrestler and actor in WWE
Born
January 13th, 1981 44 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 39 years old

A professional wrestler and actor, gained recognition in the wrestling world as a part of the tag team Cryme Tyme, which gained significant popularity in WWE. Gaspard appeared in multiple WWE events, showcasing his skills in the ring. Transitioning into acting, featured in films and television, with roles in productions like 'Get Hard' and 'The Righteous Gemstones'. In addition to wrestling and acting, contributed to various projects and continued to engage with fans until his untimely passing.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Tim Renton

English politician and culture minister
Born
May 28th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1932, a prominent English politician served in various governmental roles, including Minister for Culture, Communications and Creative Industries. Involved in public service and political reform, advocated for the arts and communication sectors during a significant period in British politics. Held a position in the House of Lords, contributing to policy discussions and legislation.

Continue Reading