What Happened This Year 2023

People Who Died in 2023

Jesús Alou

Dominican baseball player and outfielder
Born
March 24th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 81 years old

A professional baseball outfielder played primarily for the San Francisco Giants and the Atlanta Braves in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 1963 and played until 1974, achieving a career batting average of .280. Also made significant contributions while playing with the Montreal Expos and the Oakland Athletics. A member of the Alou family, which included two brothers who also played in the Major Leagues.

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Joe Kapp

American football player and coach
Born
March 19th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 85 years old

Played quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings and led the team to Super Bowl IV. Transitioned into coaching, serving as head coach for the Minnesota Golden Gophers football team and earning a Rose Bowl victory in 1962. Had a brief acting career, featuring in films and television shows.

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Federico Bahamontes

Spanish professional road cyclist
Born
July 9th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent professional road cyclist from Spain, he achieved great success in the 1950s and 1960s. Particularly recognized for exceptional climbing abilities, he won the Tour de France in 1959, becoming the first Spanish cyclist to do so. His prowess in mountainous stages established a legacy within the cycling community. Additionally, he secured multiple wins in the Vuelta a España, further solidifying his reputation as one of the top climbers of his era.

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Jesse McReynolds

Mandolin player and bluegrass musician
Born
July 9th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent American musician, played a significant role in popularizing bluegrass music alongside his brother, playing mandolin and providing vocals in the duo Jim & Jesse. The duo's career spanned over six decades, featuring a blend of traditional and progressive bluegrass styles. They were notable for their work in the Grand Ole Opry, performing there from the late 1950s onward. Contributions included several recordings that reflected their unique sound, characterized by intricate harmonies and innovative instrumentation.

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Art McNally

American football referee and official
Born
July 1st, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 98 years old

An influential figure in American football officiating, this individual started a career as a referee in the National Football League (NFL) in the 1950s. Served in the NFL for over 30 years, contributing to the establishment of officiating protocols and standards that improved the integrity of the game. Transitioned to the role of Supervisor of Officials in 1991, overseeing the training and development of referees. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2022, recognizing contributions to the sport and officiating. Continued to be an important figure in the football community until death in early 2023.

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Burt Bacharach

Singer-songwriter and composer of film scores
Born
May 12th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent figure in the music industry, this artist gained recognition for composing numerous hit songs and film scores. Collaborations with lyricist Hal David resulted in iconic tracks such as 'Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head' and 'I'll Never Fall in Love Again.' The artist also received critical acclaim for creating the soundtrack for the film 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.' With a unique style incorporating elements of jazz, pop, and classical music, contributed to a significant body of work across several decades. In addition to songwriting, involved in producing and arranging music, leading to a distinguished career that influenced many contemporary artists.

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Paxton Whitehead

English Actor in 'The Last Unicorn'
Born
October 17th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 86 years old

An English actor, acclaimed for roles in television and film. Played a noteworthy part in 'The Last Unicorn', which contributed to its cult status. Appeared in various British television shows, including 'Basil Brush' and 'The Good Life'. Worked extensively in theater, showcasing a range of performances in classic and contemporary plays. Known for a distinctive voice that lent itself well to animated roles and voiceovers.

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Carl Hahn

German businessman with Volkswagen success
Born
July 1st, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 97 years old

Held various significant positions at Volkswagen, contributing to the company's growth and innovation in the automotive industry. Guided the company through expansion during the 1970s and 1980s, focusing on the development of new models and technologies. Under leadership, Volkswagen regained profitability and strengthened its market position globally. Advocated for modernization within the company, leading to strategic partnerships and improved manufacturing processes.

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Shinji Tanimura

Singer-songwriter with iconic ballads
Born
December 11th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 75 years old

Shinji Tanimura is a Japanese singer-songwriter who achieved widespread recognition in the 1970s and 1980s. Tanimura began his career with the group Arashi and later pursued a successful solo career. His music often blends traditional Japanese sounds with contemporary pop, leading to a unique style. Hits like 'Kizuna' and 'Kokoro No Naka Ni' resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying his status in the J-Pop genre. Tanimura's songs often reflect themes of love and nostalgia, appealing to a wide demographic across Japan.

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