What Happened This Year 2023

People Who Died in 2023

Gary Rossington

Guitarist for Lynyrd Skynyrd band
Born
December 4th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent guitarist contributed significantly to Southern rock music as a founding member of the band Lynyrd Skynyrd. The band released classic albums such as "Pronounced Leh-Nerd Skin-Nerd" and "Street Survivors." He survived a tragic plane crash in 1977 that claimed the lives of other band members. Later, he helped to re-establish the band in the late 1980s, continuing to perform and record music. His guitar work is recognized for its melodic approach and influence on the genre.

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Craig Breedlove

Race car driver and land speed record holder
Born
March 23rd, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 86 years old

Achieved significant milestones in land speed racing. Set multiple world land speed records driving vehicles such as the Spirit of America and the blue Flame. First person to exceed 400 mph in a wheeled vehicle, reaching a speed of 408.6 mph in 1970. Continued to break his own records throughout the 1960s and 1970s, establishing a legacy in the sport of land speed racing.

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Roger Whittaker

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
March 22nd, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 87 years old

A singer-songwriter and guitarist, achieved prominence in the music industry with a unique blend of folk, pop, and country music styles. Rose to fame during the 1960s and 1970s, recognized for emotive performances and distinctive baritone voice. Gained a large following, particularly in the UK and various European countries. Released numerous albums and singles, several of which reached high chart positions. Known for hit songs such as 'Durham Town' and 'The Last Farewell'. Also performed extensively in live concerts across the globe.

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Dianne Feinstein

American politician and senator
Born
June 22nd, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 90 years old

Served as a United States Senator from California from 1992 to 2024. Prior to this role, held the position of Mayor of San Francisco from 1978 to 1988. Played a significant role in the passage of major legislation, including the Assault Weapons Ban in 1994. Involved in numerous committees, including Judiciary and Intelligence, contributing to various national security and law enforcement efforts.

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Juraj Jakubisko

Slovak director and screenwriter
Born
April 30th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent Slovak director and screenwriter, contributions to film included works that explored themes of Slovak identity and history. Early works gained recognition in the 1960s with a distinctive visual style and narrative techniques. Established a notable career within the Czechoslovak New Wave movement. Later films gained international acclaim and featured rich, metaphorical storytelling. Received multiple awards throughout a prolific career, including the prestigious Milan Rastislav Šufflay Award.

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Vince Hill

English singer-songwriter with 'Edelweiss'
Born
April 16th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 89 years old

A British singer-songwriter gained recognition in the 1960s. Achieved success with the song 'Edelweiss', which reached the UK Singles Chart. Released several albums throughout the following decades and became a prominent figure in the British music scene. In addition to a solo career, contributed to television and performed on numerous shows, earning a place in popular culture.

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Barbara Bosson

American actress from Hill Street Blues
Born
November 1st, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 84 years old

An actress specialized in television and film, notable for a prominent role in the series 'Hill Street Blues'. Bosson participated in various television projects throughout her career, contributing significantly to the medium. She also appeared in shows such as 'L.A. Law' and 'Murder, She Wrote'. Her work extended to film with appearances in productions like 'The Sweet Smell of Success'.

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James G. Watt

U.S. Secretary of the Interior during Reagan
Born
January 31st, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the 43rd United States Secretary of the Interior from 1981 to 1983. Played a significant role in environmental policy and land management during the Reagan administration. Focused on energy production and deregulation, advocating for increased access to federal lands for resource extraction. Oversaw controversial policies regarding national parks and wildlife management, leading to significant public debate. Resigned amid political controversies and criticism of management practices and policies.

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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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