What Happened This Year 2022

People Who Died in 2022

Gallagher

Comedian and actor with smashing performances
Born
July 24th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1946, this American comedian gained fame for his unique style of physical comedy and observational humor. The 'Sledge-o-Matic' prop comedy routine became a hallmark of performances, involving the smashing of watermelons and everyday items. Appeared on numerous television shows, including 'The Tonight Show' and his own specials, capturing audiences with a mix of satire and slapstick. His routines often reflected on American culture and consumerism, contributing to a comedic legacy that influenced future generations.

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Wolfgang Schwanitz

East German secret police official
Born
June 26th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 92 years old

Held a prominent position within the East German secret police, commonly known as the Stasi. Played a key role in operations that involved surveillance and control of the East German populace. Engaged in intelligence activities during a period marked by significant political tensions in Europe. His tenure coincided with the Cold War, influencing the methods of state security in East Germany.

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Dietrich Mateschitz

Businessman, co-founder of Red Bull
Born
May 20th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 78 years old

Co-founded Red Bull GmbH, a company that revolutionized the energy drink market. Instrumental in the brand's marketing strategies, establishing a global presence through innovative advertising campaigns and extreme sports sponsorships. Played a key role in promoting and expanding the brand into various sports, including Formula 1 and extreme sports events. Helped foster a unique corporate culture focused on creativity and dynamism, influencing both consumer behavior and marketing approaches worldwide.

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Bill Sheffield

American politician; 5th Governor of Alaska
Born
June 26th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 94 years old

Served as the 5th Governor of Alaska from 1982 to 1986. Led various initiatives to develop the state's economy, infrastructure, and educational systems. Oversaw significant projects in transportation and energy. Prior to governorship, held the position of Anchorage's mayor, contributing to urban development and planning. His leadership style emphasized bipartisan collaboration and state welfare.

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Petar Skansi

Croatian basketball player and coach
Born
November 23rd, 1943 81 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 79 years old

A former professional basketball player and coach, Skansi played primarily as a forward. At the club level, he achieved notable success with Cibona Zagreb, winning multiple Yugoslav championships. He transitioned to coaching after his playing career, guiding various teams including the Croatian national team. Under his leadership, the national team won a bronze medal at the 1994 FIBA World Championship.

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Angelo Sodano

Cardinal and Vatican diplomat
Born
November 23rd, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 95 years old

Served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church and held significant diplomatic roles within the Vatican. Appointed Secretary of State in 1990, playing a key role in the Church’s international relations. Participated in major conclaves and contributed to various discussions regarding church policies and global issues. Participated in the ecumenical dialogue and addressed several international events representing the Vatican's stance on various matters until retirement in 2006.

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Robert Curl

Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 23rd, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 89 years old

Achieved significant contributions in the field of chemistry, particularly in the discovery of fullerenes, which are composed entirely of carbon. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1996 along with two colleagues for this groundbreaking discovery. Worked at Rice University for a substantial part of an academic career, teaching and conducting research.

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Gary Brooker

English singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
May 29th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 77 years old

A significant figure in British rock music, this artist co-founded the band Procol Harum, which achieved major success in the late 1960s. The single 'A Whiter Shade of Pale' became a defining song of the era, showcasing a blend of rock and classical influences. Besides Procol Harum, this musician had a successful solo career and collaborated with various artists. His contributions to music extended beyond performance, influencing the rock genre with lyrical depth and melodic sophistication.

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Jose Maria Sison

Filipino activist and theorist
Born
February 8th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed significantly to the establishment of the Communist Party of the Philippines in 1968. Developed a Marxist-Leninist-Maoist framework for the party and its armed wing, the New People's Army. Advocated for revolutionary reforms and social justice in the Philippines. Experienced lengthy political imprisonment and exile, continuing to influence leftist politics through writings and ideologies.

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