What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

Bob Watson

Baseball player and manager with Astros
Born
April 10th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 74 years old

A professional baseball player and manager, born in 1946. Played as a first baseman and outfielder, participating in the Major League Baseball for teams such as the Houston Astros, New York Yankees, and Atlanta Braves. Served as the first African American general manager of the New York Yankees. Managed the Houston Astros and contributed to the growth and development of players in the league.

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Jack Welch

Business executive and author
Born
November 19th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 85 years old

An influential business executive and author, operated as the Chairman and CEO of General Electric from 1981 to 2001. Under leadership, the company expanded significantly and achieved a market capitalization growth from $12 billion to $410 billion. Published several books on management and business strategies, including 'Jack: Straight from the Gut' and 'Winning'.

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Lee Konitz

Saxophonist and composer of cool jazz
Born
October 13th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 93 years old

A significant figure in the cool jazz movement, played alto saxophone and composed numerous pieces. Collaborated with influential artists and participated in countless recordings throughout a career spanning over seven decades. Worked with notable bands and orchestras, contributing to the evolution of jazz during the mid-20th century. Helped popularize the harmonically rich, improvisational style of cool jazz, distinguishing it from other genres. Developed a reputation for innovative phrasing and a distinctive sound, influencing generations of saxophonists.

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Aster Berkhof

Belgian author and academic
Born
June 18th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 100 years old

This individual contributed significantly to literature and academia in Belgium. Specializing in narrative fiction, the author produced several notable works throughout a long career. Teaching at various academic institutions also marked a substantial part of academic life. Engaging in scholarly debates and writing critically acclaimed essays further enriched the intellectual landscape. The output includes both fiction and non-fiction that received recognition within literary circles.

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Ellis Marsalis Jr.

Pianist and educator in jazz music
Born
November 14th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent figure in jazz music, contributed significantly to the New Orleans jazz scene and education. Served as a professor at the University of New Orleans, mentoring numerous musicians. Recorded several albums, combining traditional and contemporary jazz styles, highlighting the rich musical heritage of New Orleans. Elevated the status of jazz piano through performance and teaching, fostering the development of future generations of jazz artists.

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Monique Mercure

Canadian actress in film and television
Born
November 14th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent figure in Canadian cinema and theatre, this individual gained recognition for performances in film and television. Appeared in the movie 'Mon Oncle Antoine,' which is considered a classic of Canadian cinema. Also had a significant role in the television series 'Les Filles de Caleb,' showcasing talent in both medium. Her career spanned several decades, leading to a lasting influence in the arts community in Canada.

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Dick Thornburgh

American Attorney General and politician
Born
July 16th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the 76th Attorney General of the United States from 1988 to 1990. Held the position of Governor of Pennsylvania from 1979 to 1987, implementing various legislative reforms. Worked as a partner at a prominent law firm following public service, focusing on regulatory and public policy issues. Achieved recognition for contributions to public administration and legal practice, influencing a range of policies during and after tenure in public office.

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John Meurig Thomas

Welsh chemist and academic leader
Born
December 15th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 88 years old

Contributions focused on surface science and catalysis, emphasizing the fundamental understanding of heterogeneous catalysts. Served as the head of the Department of Chemistry at the University of St Andrews. Promoted educational advancement in chemistry through various academic roles and publications. Made significant strides in the application of techniques such as X-ray diffraction and spectroscopy. Engaged in groundbreaking research that shaped modern catalytic processes.

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Ida Haendel

Violinist and educator
Born
December 15th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 92 years old

Born in Poland, a prominent violinist and educator emerged, recognized for remarkable musical talent. Early training occurred under the guidance of renowned mentors, leading to a prestigious career. Performances included appearances with major orchestras globally, including the London Symphony Orchestra. In addition to concert performances, dedicated efforts in music education shaped many young violinists. Active in international competitions, secured accolades, contributing to a vibrant performance and educational legacy.

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