We remember them...

[Requin]

Sir Edmund Hillary conquered Everest, Miriam 'Mama Afrika' Makeba became a voice for the anti-apartheid struggle, while the life of rising star Heath Ledger was cut short. All three died in 2008.
Here is a colourful tribute to them - and some of the other famous names no longer with us.
(link - http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/7790272.stm)

EDIT: I would also like to add that the great Harold Pinter died recently, a great loss to the world of drama and fiction.......and....pauses.

[Sage]

I miss Heath. He was good at what he did. Haven't heard so much of the others.

[pizzamon]

Reflections from the past year are always filled with triumphs and defeats, but the living rejoice at living long enough to wish the new year in.