What Happened This Year 2023

People Who Died in 2023

Willie Hernández

Puerto Rican baseball pitcher, 1984 MVP
Born
November 14th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 69 years old

This individual played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Detroit Tigers. A significant achievement includes being awarded the 1984 American League Cy Young Award and the Most Valuable Player Award in the World Series that same year. Contributed to the Tigers' victory in the 1984 World Series. Also played for the Chicago Cubs and the Philadelphia Phillies during a career that spanned from 1977 to 1990.

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Jim Price

Baseball player for Detroit Tigers
Born
October 13th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 82 years old

A professional baseball player, primarily served as a catcher. Played in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1965 to 1972, predominantly with the Detroit Tigers. Contributed to the team's success in the 1968 World Series, where the Tigers triumphed over the St. Louis Cardinals. Also played for the Pittsburgh Pirates and appeared in the MLB All-Star Game in 1970.

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Bud Grant

Football coach, led Vikings to four Super Bowls
Born
May 20th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 96 years old

A significant figure in American football, Grant served as head coach of the Minnesota Vikings for multiple tenures, including a period from 1967 to 1983. Under Grant's leadership, the Vikings reached the Super Bowl four times, although they did not secure a championship victory. Prior to coaching, Grant played as a wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles and the Los Angeles Rams. He also made a mark in Canadian football, coaching the Winnipeg Blue Bombers to multiple Grey Cup championships. In addition to coaching, Grant was an influential figure in sports administration and served in various capacities, helping shape the future of football in Minnesota.

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Melinda Dillon

American actress with films like 'Close Encounters'
Born
October 13th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 84 years old

An actress gained recognition in film and television. Achieved prominence with a role in 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' in 1977, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Appeared in the movie 'A Christmas Story' in 1983, portraying the role of the mother, contributing to its status as a holiday classic. Worked extensively in theater, receiving acclaim for performances in various productions, including 'The Philadelphia Story' on Broadway. Dillon's career spanned several decades, showcasing a range of characters and delivering memorable performances across various genres.

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Michael Blakemore

Australian actor, director, and screenwriter
Born
June 18th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 95 years old

An influential figure in theatre, directed productions in London's West End and Broadway. Received multiple Tony Awards for direction, including for 'Noises Off' and 'Forty-Second Street'. Worked extensively in television and film, contributing as a screenwriter and director. Maintained a long association with the Royal National Theatre in London, showcasing talent in both classic and contemporary works.

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Bobby Caldwell

Singer-songwriter and 'What You Won't Do for Love'
Born
August 15th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 72 years old

A singer-songwriter, created a blend of R&B, jazz, and pop music. Released the hit single 'What You Won't Do for Love' in 1978, which gained significant popularity and became a staple in the genre. Throughout the career, wrote and produced music for various artists and released several albums, showcasing versatility in songwriting. The smooth vocal style and engaging melodies resonated with audiences, leading to a loyal fan base. Contributed to the music industry with a unique sound that often blurred genre lines.

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Tane Norton

New Zealand rugby player, All Blacks captain
Born
March 30th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 81 years old

Played rugby union for the All Blacks from 1965 to 1974. Served as captain during the 1971 tour of the British Isles and France. Participated in 34 test matches, contributing to numerous victories in international competitions. Inducted into the New Zealand Rugby Hall of Fame, recognizing significant achievements in the sport.

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Bill Hayden

Australian politician and Governor-General
Born
January 23rd, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 90 years old

Served as the 21st Governor-General of Australia from 1989 to 1996. His political career included membership in the Australian Labor Party and various ministerial roles. Represented the Queensland seat of Oxley in the House of Representatives from 1961 to 1983. Served as the Leader of the Labor Party from 1977 to 1983. Played a significant role in shaping Australian politics during his tenure. After leaving politics, contributed to several organizations and served in various honorary roles.

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Samboy Lim

Filipino basketball player and manager
Born
April 1st, 1962 63 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent basketball figure, played in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) for the San Miguel Beermen and the entirety of his career for the team. Established a reputation as one of the league's best shooting guards during the 1980s and 1990s. After retirement, transitioned into coaching and management roles within professional basketball, contributing to the development of the sport in the Philippines.

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