What Happened This Year 2023

People Who Died in 2023

Frederic Forrest

American actor including Apocalypse Now
Born
December 23rd, 1936 88 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 87 years old

An actor prominent in film and television, with a career spanning several decades. Gained recognition for roles in the films 'Apocalypse Now' and 'The Missouri Breaks'. Also appeared in acclaimed productions such as 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' and various television series. Contributed to both dramatic and comedic performances, showcasing versatility across genres.

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Mary L. Cleave

American engineer and NASA astronaut
Born
February 5th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 76 years old

An engineer and astronaut participated in two Space Shuttle missions, STS-61-B in 1985 and STS-30 in 1989. These missions contributed to satellite deployment and the launch of important scientific instruments. In her engineering career, worked at NASA, focusing on environmental engineering and spacecraft design, and held various positions, including serving as a Deputy Director for the Earth Science Division. Cleave's work has been influential in both aerospace engineering and environmental protection.

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Russell Batiste Jr.

Funk and R&B drummer with Soulive
Born
December 12th, 1965 59 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 58 years old

A drummer renowned for contributions to the funk and R&B genres. Began professional career in the 1990s, performing with various artists and bands. Gained prominence as a member of the band Soulive, which fused jazz, funk, and soul elements, influencing the instrumental music scene. Worked with numerous celebrated musicians and bands, contributing to their recordings and live performances.

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Ahmad Jamal

Jazz musician and pianist
Born
July 2nd, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent jazz musician and pianist, contributions to the genre spanned over decades. Played with a unique style that blended various elements of jazz, leading to a distinctive sound. Instrumental in the development of modal jazz and collaborated with various notable artists. Gained widespread recognition for the album "At the Pershing: But Not for Me" which showcased innovative arrangements and a rich musical experience.

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Owen Davidson

Tennis Player and Mixed Doubles Champion
Born
October 4th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 80 years old

Achieved success as a professional tennis player, particularly in mixed doubles. Competed in the Grand Slam tournaments during the 1960s and 1970s. Won the Wimbledon mixed doubles title in 1967 and the US Open mixed doubles title in 1968. Also reached the singles quarterfinals at the Australian Open. Represented Australia in the Davis Cup, contributing to the team's victories.

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Gayle Hunnicutt

American actress in film and television
Born
February 6th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 80 years old

An American actress with a career spanning several decades. Hunnicutt gained recognition for roles in various television series and films during the 1960s and 1970s. Her performances in 'The Way We Were' and 'The Omega Man' contributed to her prominence in the entertainment industry. In addition to film, Hunnicutt appeared in popular television shows, showcasing her talent in different genres. Her work included guest appearances in notable series, illustrating her versatility as an actress.

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Herb Kohl

Businessman and former U.S. Senator
Born
February 7th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 88 years old

A businessman and politician from Wisconsin served in the U.S. Senate from 1989 to 2013. Prior to entering politics, founded a successful retail business, Kohl's Food Stores, which significantly contributed to the local economy. During Senate tenure, focused on issues such as education, health care, and economic development. Played a vital role in securing federal funding for various projects in Wisconsin. After retiring from the Senate, continued philanthropy through the Kohl's philanthropic efforts.

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Delma S. Arrigoitia

Puerto Rican historian and author
Born
February 10th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent historian and educator from Puerto Rico, this individual specialized in the history and culture of Puerto Rican communities in the United States. As an author, contributions include works that explore the socio-political landscape of Puerto Rican identity, particularly amidst diaspora experiences. In the legal field, served as an advocate for civil rights and social justice, holding various influential positions. Active in academia, played a critical role in advancing the study of Puerto Rican history at educational institutions.

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Bingo Smith

Basketball player with Cleveland Cavaliers
Born
February 26th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 77 years old

Professional basketball player, played as a shooting guard and small forward. Played for the Cleveland Cavaliers from 1970 to 1976 and later played for the San Diego Clippers until 1980. Contributed significantly to the development of the Cavaliers during the team's early years in the NBA. After retiring from playing, transitioned into coaching and other roles in basketball.

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