What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

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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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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Tom Heinsohn

Basketball player, coach, and sportscaster
Born
August 26th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 86 years old

Started professional basketball career in 1956 with the Boston Celtics. Played as a forward and was a crucial part of the team, winning eight NBA championships from 1957 to 1969. After retiring as a player, transitioned to coaching, leading the Celtics to two additional championships in 1974 and 1976. Later became a sportscaster, providing commentary for Celtics games, and gained recognition for insightful analysis and vibrant personality on air.

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K. T. Oslin

Singer-songwriter known for '80's hits
Born
May 15th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent figure in country music, contributed significantly to the genre during the 1980s. Released hit singles including '80's Lady' and 'Do Ya' in 1987. Garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, resulting in multiple awards, including the Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance. Also worked as an actress, appearing in television productions.

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Cengiz Bektaş

Turkish architect and engineer
Born
November 26th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 86 years old

An architect, engineer, and journalist contributed significantly to contemporary Turkish architecture. Engaged in the design and planning of various public and cultural buildings, emphasized the integration of modern and traditional elements in architecture. Involved in journalism, focusing on architecture and urban issues, and played a pivotal role in discussions surrounding architectural heritage in Turkey. Actively participated in numerous architectural exhibitions and was recognized for contributions to architectural education and local community projects.

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William S. Sessions

FBI Director and civil servant
Born
May 27th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 90 years old

Served as the 8th Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation from 1987 to 1993. Oversaw various high-profile investigations during a critical era in U.S. law enforcement. Appointed a federal judge prior to his tenure at the FBI, contributing to the judiciary for over a decade. Implemented significant reforms within the FBI to enhance its operational effectiveness and community relations.

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Paolo Rossi

Italian footballer and World Cup champion
Born
September 23rd, 1956 68 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 64 years old

A prolific footballer, played as a forward. Gained prominence during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Achieved international recognition during the 1982 FIFA World Cup in Spain, where he led Italy to victory. Scored six goals in the tournament, including a crucial hat-trick against Brazil in the quarter-finals. Played for clubs such as Vicenza, Juventus, and Milan, contributing to domestic and international successes. His achievements earned him the FIFA World Cup Golden Boot as the tournament's top scorer and the Ballon d'Or in 1982.

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Adrianus Johannes Simonis

Dutch Cardinal and Church Leader
Born
November 26th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a prominent figure in the Roman Catholic Church, holding the title of Archbishop of Utrecht from 1983 to 2006. Participated in the Second Vatican Council and was a key voice on various theological issues. Elevated to cardinal in 1985, Simonis contributed significantly to the discussions surrounding church reform and social issues within the community. Advocated for the pro-life movement and addressed pastoral care for the marginalized. His tenure was marked by a focus on catechesis and promoting church teachings.

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Tony Fernández

Dominican baseball player and shortstop
Born
June 30th, 1962 62 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 58 years old

Played Major League Baseball primarily as a shortstop. Career spanned from 1983 to 2001, with significant tenures at the Toronto Blue Jays and the New York Mets. Contributed to the Blue Jays' first World Series championship in 1992. Also played for teams including the San Diego Padres and the Cincinnati Reds. Noted for exceptional defensive skills and consistency at the plate.

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