What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

Paul Hornung

American football player, Heisman Trophy winner
Born
December 23rd, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 85 years old

An American football player achieved significant fame during a career in the National Football League (NFL). Played for the Green Bay Packers from 1956 to 1966. Received the Heisman Trophy in 1956 as a standout player at the University of Notre Dame. Contributed to four NFL championships and the first Super Bowl victory in 1967. Transitioned into a successful career as a sportscaster after retirement from professional football.

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Choi Yun-chil

South Korean long-distance runner, marathon champion
Born
July 19th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 92 years old

A long-distance runner from South Korea, achieved national recognition as a two-time champion in the marathon. Competed in numerous events throughout his career, showcasing endurance and dedication to the sport. Notable for representing South Korea in multiple international competitions, contributing to the country's reputation in long-distance running. His commitment to athletics inspired many in the field and highlighted the potential for success in South Korean sports.

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Ed Bearss

American military historian and author
Born
June 26th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 97 years old

Contributed extensively to military history, focusing on the American Civil War. Served as Chief Historian of the National Park Service. Authored numerous books and articles detailing battles and military strategies. Provided commentary and insights during battlefield tours, enhancing public understanding of historical events. Engaged in historical preservation efforts and advocated for the importance of historical education.

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Ben Bova

American science fiction author and editor
Born
November 8th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 88 years old

Bova was a prolific American journalist and author who wrote extensively in the science fiction genre. Bova served as an editor for various science fiction publications, including Analog Science Fiction and Science Fact. He authored numerous novels, many of which explored themes of space exploration and the future of humanity. Significant works include 'The Exiles Trilogy' and 'Mars.' Additionally, Bova was involved in the development of the space program as a consultant and contributed to advancing public understanding of science and technology through writing.

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Tommy Docherty

Football manager and player of the 1970s
Born
April 24th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 92 years old

Played as a professional footballer primarily as a defender with clubs including Arsenal and Chelsea. Transitioned into management, leading several teams in the English football league system. Achieved notable success as the manager of Manchester United, guiding the team to victory in the FA Cup in 1977. His tenure at clubs like Chelsea and QPR also highlighted a significant coaching career in British football.

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Joe Coulombe

Founder of Trader Joe's supermarket chain
Born
June 3rd, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 90 years old

An entrepreneur established a grocery store chain emphasizing unique products and a distinct shopping experience. In 1967, launched Trader Joe's in Pasadena, California, inspired by a desire for quality food at reasonable prices. Expanded the store's offerings to include international items and private label products. Developed a distinctive store atmosphere that blended a nautical theme with a casual approach, attracting a loyal customer base. Grew the company into a successful national chain before selling it in 1979.

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Brian Howe

English singer-songwriter with Bad Company
Born
July 22nd, 1953 72 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 67 years old

Started musical career in the late 1970s. Gained prominence as lead vocalist for the rock band Bad Company in the late 1980s. Contributed to the band's album 'Holy Water', which achieved commercial success. Collaborated with various artists throughout the years and released solo albums that showcased a blend of rock and pop influences. Worked in the music industry until the late 2010s, maintaining a presence in rock music circles.

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Oliver E. Williamson

Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 27th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 88 years old

An economist focused on the theory of the firm and institutional economics. Williamson contributed significantly to the understanding of how economic organizations operate. As an academic, he held positions at several universities, including the University of California, Berkeley. Williamson's research explored the reasons firms exist, the structure of contracts, and the role of transaction costs in economic activity. In 2009, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences for his analysis of economic governance, particularly the boundaries of firms.

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Pierre Nkurunziza

Burundian politician and president
Born
December 18th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1963, this individual served as the 9th President of Burundi from 2005 to 2020. Initially a soldier, he participated in the civil war in Burundi and later became a prominent political figure. His presidency was marked by significant political turmoil and controversy, particularly related to his decision to run for a third term in 2015, which led to widespread protests and violence. After leaving office, the country continued to face challenges regarding governance and human rights. This individual played a crucial role in shaping contemporary Burundi's political landscape.

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