What Happened This Year 2023

People Who Died in 2023

Dick Savitt

Tennis player and businessman, Wimbledon champion
Born
March 4th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 96 years old

Achieved success in tennis during the 1950s, winning multiple titles. Secured wins at the Australian Open in 1950 and Wimbledon in 1951. Showcased talent on both grass and hard courts, gaining recognition as a top player of the era. Transitioned into a successful business career post-retirement, applying competitive skills from sports to the business world. Remains a notable figure in the history of American tennis.

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Walter Cunningham

American astronaut and Apollo 7 pilot
Born
March 16th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 91 years old

An American astronaut participated in the Apollo 7 mission, which was the first crewed flight of the Apollo program. This mission, launched in October 1968, tested the command and service module in Earth orbit for 11 days. Prior to becoming an astronaut, served as a fighter pilot in the U.S. Navy and contributed to aerospace research. After retiring from NASA, worked in private industry and made noteworthy contributions to the field of space exploration.

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Ann Clwyd

Welsh Politician and Journalist
Born
March 21st, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1937, a Welsh journalist and politician served as the Shadow Secretary of State for Wales. A member of the Labour Party, represented the Cynon Valley constituency in the UK Parliament from 1984 to 2015. Advocated for social justice and human rights, and has been involved in various campaigns focusing on health and education issues. Contributed significantly to political discussions on Welsh independence and the devolution of powers to Wales.

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Richard Belzer

Actor known for Law & Order: SVU role
Born
August 4th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 79 years old

An American actor, comedian, and author, became widely recognized for a role as John Munch on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, appearing in the series from its inception in 1999 until 2016. Munch originally originated in Homicide: Life on the Street and appeared in multiple crossover episodes within other shows in the franchise. Belzer also had roles in films including Café Society and The Midnight Express. In addition to acting, he authored several books, often focusing on conspiracy theories and current events. With a career spanning several decades, Belzer left a mark on both television and the comedy circuit.

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James Zagel

American lawyer and federal judge
Born
March 4th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 82 years old

Graduated from the University of Illinois College of Law. Practiced law in Chicago before serving as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. Appointed to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois in 2000. Presided over several high-profile cases, including the prosecution of former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich. Served as a judge for over 20 years, contributing to complex legal decisions and shaping federal law in the region.

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Christopher Gunning

English composer of film scores
Born
August 5th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1944, a prolific English composer focused on creating music for film and television. Gunning gained recognition for scoring the acclaimed television series 'Agatha Christie's Poirot' and the film 'The Mysteries of the Black Widow.' His work spans multiple genres, reflecting a deep understanding of orchestration and narrative support through music. With a career extending over several decades, he contributed extensively to British television and cinema through his compositions.

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Marinho Peres

Footballer and coach; played for Brazil
Born
March 19th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 76 years old

A Brazilian footballer and coach, played as a defender during the 1970s. Won the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A with São Paulo FC and participated in the 1974 FIFA World Cup as a member of the Brazilian national team. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, leading various clubs in Brazil. His coaching career spans multiple decades, overseeing teams in domestic leagues and contributing to the development of players.

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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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Yuri Manin

Mathematician, contributed to algebraic geometry
Born
February 16th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1937, contributions included significant advancements in algebraic geometry and mathematical physics. Held positions at various prestigious institutions, including the University of Munich and the University of California, Santa Barbara. Authored influential works that shaped contemporary mathematics, particularly in areas like number theory and algebraic topology.

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