What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

Marj Dusay

American actress in soap operas
Born
February 20th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 84 years old

An American actress, recognized for work in daytime television, particularly in soap operas. Gained prominence in the 1980s, prominently featured in 'Guiding Light' as Ross Marler's girlfriend, and later portrayed the character of Vanessa Chamberlain in 'One Life to Live'. Appeared in other series including 'The Gifted' and 'Days of Our Lives'. Had a career that spanned multiple decades with appearances in various television shows and films, showcasing a strong presence in the entertainment industry.

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Eddie Johnson

Basketball player for the Phoenix Suns
Born
February 24th, 1955 71 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 65 years old

Played professional basketball as a shooting guard in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Spent the majority of the career with the Phoenix Suns and also played for the Seattle SuperSonics, the Sacramento Kings, and the Atlanta Hawks. Earned a reputation as a skilled scorer and a reliable free-throw shooter. Was selected as an NBA All-Star in 1987 while with the Suns. After retirement, transitioned to a career in sports broadcasting.

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Pat Stapleton

Ice hockey player, 1966 World Champion
Born
July 4th, 1940 86 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1940, played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily for the Chicago Black Hawks. Represented Canada in international competitions, contributing to the national team's success. Played a pivotal role in the 1966 World Championship where Canada secured the gold medal. His career was marked by exceptional skills on the ice, establishing a legacy among defensemen in the sport.

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Henry N. Cobb

Architect, co-founder of Pei Cobb Freed
Born
April 8th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 94 years old

An American architect and academic, co-founded Pei Cobb Freed & Partners in 1955. Contributions to modern architecture included various prominent buildings. Known for designing the Bank of China Tower in Hong Kong, which features a distinctive triangular shape. Also played a significant role in the design of the John F. Kennedy Library in Boston, providing a modernist approach to civic architecture.

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Alberto Naranjo

Venezuelan drummer and bandleader
Born
September 14th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1941, this Venezuelan drummer, composer, and bandleader contributed significantly to Latin jazz and the Venezuelan music scene. As a member of several orchestras, he gained recognition for his virtuosic drumming skills and innovative compositions. Naranjo also led the renowned band "The Latin Jazz Ensemble," which showcased a blend of traditional Latin rhythms and jazz improvisation. His work in developing the Venezuelan music genre and composing for various ensembles left a lasting influence in the industry.

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Keith Critchlow

Architect and co-founder of Temenos Academy
Born
March 16th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
2020 6 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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Owen Arthur

Barbadian economist and politician
Born
October 17th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of Barbados from 1994 to 2008. Contributed to the country's economic policies and was influential in the development of Barbados's financial services sector. Played a key role in regional integration, advocating for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). He also fostered investments in tourism and education, further shaping the island's economic landscape.

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Alison Lurie

Author and academic known for 'Foreign Affairs'
Born
September 3rd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 94 years old

An American author and academic, distinguished in the fields of literature and education. Authored several acclaimed novels and scholarly works, with a significant contribution to the understanding of contemporary American culture and society. 'Foreign Affairs' won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1985, showcasing the complexities of love and relationships among intellectuals. As a professor, offered insights into literature, particularly in the realm of modern fiction, impacting generations of students. Engaged in writing criticism and essays, further illustrating themes of social observation and human behavior.

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Hugh Downs

Journalist and game show host
Born
February 14th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 99 years old

A prominent American journalist and television host, notable for a career spanning several decades in broadcast journalism. Served as co-anchor of ABC's '20/20' from its inception and contributed to various news programs, enhancing public understanding of complex issues. Hosted game shows including 'The Price Is Right' and 'Hollywood Squares', showcasing versatility in television. Held the Guinness World Record for the most hours on television, highlighting a significant presence in American media.

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