July 13

Godtfred Kirk Christiansen was the son of LEGO founder Ole Kirk Christiansen and served as chairman of The LEGO Group from 1957 to 1979. He oversaw the invention of the iconic LEGO brick in its modern form and expanded the company's global reach. Under his leadership, LEGO evolved from a local woodworking firm to a worldwide toy manufacturer. He prioritized quality and innovation, setting standards that endure today. Christiansen's vision laid the foundation for LEGO to become a beloved brand for generations of builders.

George Steinbrenner (1930-2010) was an American entrepreneur and sports magnate who purchased the New York Yankees in 1973. Under his leadership, the Yankees became one of the most successful and profitable franchises in professional sports, winning multiple World Series championships. Steinbrenner was known for his hands-on management style, bold player acquisitions, and commitment to excellence. Beyond baseball, he engaged in various business ventures, including shipping and broadcasting. His larger-than-life personality and competitive drive left an indelible mark on Major League Baseball and American sports culture.

Born in 1938 in Italy, Ottavio Quattrocchi became a leading figure in the oil and gas industry, serving as a representative for Snamprogetti. He developed close ties with Indian political circles, notably the Gandhi family, which positioned him as a key intermediary in defense procurements. In the 1980s, authorities in India accused him of channeling bribes from Swedish arms manufacturer Bofors, triggering one of the country's biggest political scandals. Quattrocchi consistently denied wrongdoing and fought legal battles across international courts to clear his name. Despite prolonged investigations, he avoided extradition and returned to Italy, where he maintained a low profile until his death in 2013. His legacy remains controversial, symbolizing complex intersections between business, politics, and international defense deals.

Naomi Pomeroy (1974–2024) was a pioneering American chef who founded the intimate dining spot Beast in Portland, Oregon, in 2007. She built a devoted following with a fixed-price, multi-course menu showcasing Pacific Northwest ingredients and inventive flavor combinations. In 2014, she won the James Beard Award for Best Chef Northwest, gaining national recognition. Pomeroy authored the cookbook 'Taste & Technique' to help home cooks master professional recipes and appeared as a judge on cooking shows. She championed sustainable sourcing and community-focused hospitality. Her sudden passing in 2024 left a lasting legacy in the culinary world.