Famous people and celebrities who died in February 2002

This page is dedicated to commemorating the celebrities and famous people who passed away in February 2002. This month marked the loss of influential and beloved figures whose contributions spanned various fields and touched many lives. Explore our detailed list to remember and celebrate their enduring legacies and the remarkable impact they had on the world

• Feb. 1 Hildegard Knef

  Renowned German actress who appeared in 56 films by 1978, including the notable film 'Fedora'. She was also an accomplished author of two autobiographies published in 1970.

• Feb. 2 Paul Baloff

  Legendary thrash metal vocalist known for being the original lead singer of the influential Bay Area metal band Exodus, who significantly contributed to the development of the thrash metal genre.

• Feb. 2 Claude Brown

  American author (b. 1937)

• Feb. 4 George Nader

  George Nader was a prominent American actor at Universal Studios during the 1950s, known for his international film career. He appeared in notable films like 'Rustlers on Horseback' and 'Carnival Story', and also directed the 1963 film 'Walk by the Sea'.

• Feb. 6 Max Perutz

  Renowned British biochemist who won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1962 for groundbreaking research on protein structure, specifically hemoglobin. His X-ray crystallography work revolutionized understanding of molecular biology and protein mechanisms.

• Feb. 6 Max Ferdinand Perutz

  Nobel Prize laureate for their studies of the structures of globular proteins

• Feb. 8 Ong Teng Cheong

  Singaporean architect and politician who served as the 5th President of Singapore from 1993 to 2001, playing a significant role in the nation's development.

• Feb. 9 Princess Margaret Countess of Snowdon

  Princess Margaret was a prominent member of the British Royal Family, known for her glamorous lifestyle, rebellious spirit, and complex personal relationships. She was the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II and a significant public figure in mid-20th century British society.

• Feb. 10 Dave Van Ronk

  A pivotal figure in the 1960s New York folk music scene, known for his distinctive blues style, influential guitar playing, and significant role in the folk music revival.

• Feb. 11 Frankie Crosetti

  Professional American baseball player and coach who played for the New York Yankees during the golden era of baseball.

• Feb. 11 Barry Foster

  British actor (born 1931).

• Feb. 13 Waylon Jennings

  Legendary country-western outlaw musician who revolutionized the genre with Willie Nelson, creating a more authentic and rock-influenced sound. He led the band 'The Waylors' and became a pivotal figure in transforming country music's mainstream perception.

• Feb. 14 Mick Tucker

  Mick Tucker was the drummer of the iconic glam rock band Sweet, known for their hit songs in the 1970s.

• Feb. 15 Howard K. Smith

  Prominent American journalist and television news anchor who played a significant role in broadcast journalism during the mid-20th century. He was known for his coverage of major historical events and political debates.

• Feb. 16 Walter Winterbottom

  English footballer and manager (b. 1913)

• Feb. 19 Virginia Hamilton

  Virginia Hamilton was a groundbreaking African American children's book author who won numerous awards for her innovative storytelling that celebrated diversity and cultural heritage.

• Feb. 19 Sylvia Rivera

  Pioneering transgender activist who was instrumental in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, co-founding key organizations like Gay Liberation Front and Street Transgender Action Revolutionaries (STAR), advocating for marginalized transgender and drag queen communities.

• Feb. 21 John Thaw

  Renowned British actor famous for his iconic role as Inspector Morse in the popular detective television series. He was a highly respected performer in British television and film.

• Feb. 22 Daniel Pearl

  American journalist tragically kidnapped and murdered in Pakistan in 2002, becoming a symbol of press freedom and journalistic courage during the post-9/11 era.

• Feb. 22 Chuck Jones

  Legendary American animator, director, and producer best known for creating iconic Looney Tunes characters and revolutionizing animated storytelling.

• Feb. 22 Roden Cutler

  Prominent Australian military officer and politician who served as the 32nd Governor of New South Wales, recognized for his distinguished service and leadership.

• Feb. 22 Jonas Savimbi

  Prominent Angolan political and military leader who founded UNITA, a major anti-communist rebel movement during Angola's civil war. He was a controversial figure who fought against Portuguese colonialism and later against the MPLA government.

• Feb. 24 Arthur Lyman

  Renowned Hawaiian jazz musician famous for his exotica and jazz vibraphone and marimba performances.

• Feb. 24 Leo Ornstein

  Ukrainian-american pianist and composer (b. 1893)

• Feb. 26 Lawrence Tierney

  Iconic American actor famous for playing tough guys and gangsters in over 80 films during his 50-year career. He was particularly notable for his role in the film 'Dillinger'.

• Feb. 27 Spike Milligan

  Renowned British comedian, writer, and performer best known for creating and starring in 'The Goon Show', a groundbreaking radio comedy series that significantly influenced British humor and comedy. He was a multitalented artist who worked as a musician, writer, poet, and actor.

• Feb. 28 Mary Stuart

  American actress and singer (b. 1926)

• Feb. 28 Helmut Zacharias

  Renowned German violinist and composer who made significant contributions to classical and popular music during the mid-20th century.