What Happened This Year 1985

People Who Died in 1985

Donald J. Russell

Businessman and corporate leader
Born
January 3rd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 85 years old

An American businessman played a significant role in the steel industry. As CEO of a major steel company, oversaw operations during a pivotal period of growth and competition in the industry. Contributed to the development and implementation of innovative production techniques that improved efficiency and productivity. Involved in various industry organizations, promoting advancements and addressing challenges facing the sector.

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Roman Czerniawski

Polish Air Force officer and intelligence agent
Born
February 6th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 75 years old

Served as a pilot in the Polish Air Force during World War II. Played a crucial role in intelligence gathering and espionage activities against Nazi Germany. Worked with the British Royal Air Force and participated in various operations. After the war, continued to be involved in military and intelligence activities, contributing to post-war aviation in Poland.

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Georges-Émile Lapalme

Canadian lawyer and politician
Born
January 14th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 78 years old

A Canadian lawyer and politician who served as a member of the National Assembly of Quebec. Played a significant role in the development of the Quebec Liberal Party, holding various cabinet positions. Contributed to legal reforms and was involved in numerous political campaigns, advocating for progressive policies in Quebec.

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Carlos P. Romulo

Filipino politician and soldier
Born
January 14th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent Filipino soldier and politician who served as the President of the United Nations General Assembly from 1949 to 1950. His career spanned various roles, including serving as the Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines and as the Philippine Ambassador to the United States. Romulo was involved in the establishment of the United Nations and its early operations, advocating for the Philippines' interests on the international stage. He was instrumental in post-World War II diplomacy and participated in peace negotiations. His writings on history and political science also contributed to Filipino literature and thought.

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Harald Cramér

Swedish mathematician and statistician
Born
September 25th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 92 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of probability theory and statistics. Developed the Cramér-Rao bound, a fundamental concept in estimation theory. Cramér also worked on the theory of statistical methods and played a crucial role in advancing the application of mathematical statistics. His work included contributions to stochastic processes and limit theorems, including the Cramér-Wold theorem. In addition, he authored several influential textbooks that have been widely used in the study of probability and statistics.

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Irving Mills

American publisher of jazz music
Born
January 16th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 91 years old

A major figure in the development of the jazz music industry in the early 20th century, significantly contributed to the promotion of jazz through publishing and record production. Founded the Mills Music Company in 1918, which became a key player in music publishing. Worked with notable jazz artists and played an essential role in the careers of several prominent musicians by providing them with platforms to share their music. His strategies helped shape the commercial landscape of jazz, making it more accessible to the broader public.

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Cus D'Amato

Boxing manager and trainer of champions
Born
January 17th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 77 years old

An influential boxing manager and trainer, had a significant role in shaping the careers of several world champions. In the 1980s, trained Mike Tyson, who became the youngest heavyweight champion in history at age 20. D'Amato also managed Floyd Patterson, a two-time heavyweight champion. His training philosophy emphasized psychological and emotional preparation as much as physical training, focusing on the mental fortitude of athletes. Founded the Cus D'Amato Boxing Club, which produced numerous successful fighters. D'Amato's techniques and strategies in the ring set a standard that influenced generations of boxers and coaches.

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Gábor Szegő

Mathematician and academic known for orthogonal polynomials
Born
January 20th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 90 years old

Contributions to mathematics focused on the theory of orthogonal polynomials and functional analysis. Significant work included the Szegő limit theorem and the Szegő integral formula. Held academic positions at various institutions, sharing expertise in analysis and related fields. Authored several influential papers and works that shaped modern mathematical thought.

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Masten Gregory

Race car driver; Le Mans 24 Hours participant
Born
February 29th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 53 years old

Masten Gregory was a prominent American race car driver active primarily in the 1950s and 1960s. Competing in various international racing events, he achieved significant recognition for participating in the prestigious Le Mans 24 Hours race. Operated various vehicles, including those from Maserati and Ferrari, and demonstrated notable skill in endurance racing. Gregory also contributed to the development of motorsport through his involvement in several racing teams and organizations.

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