What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Luther Vandross

American singer-songwriter and producer
Born
April 20th, 1951 73 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2005 19 years ago — 54 years old

A prominent American singer-songwriter, whose career spanned several decades, achieved significant acclaim for a smooth vocal style and emotive performances. Rose to fame in the 1980s, releasing a series of successful albums that showcased a blend of soul, R&B, and pop influences. The artist won multiple Grammy Awards, with hits such as 'Never Too Much' and 'Dance with My Father' highlighting the ability to connect with audiences through heartfelt lyrics and rich melodies.

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Norm Prescott

Animator and co-founder of Filmation
Born
January 31st, 1927 98 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2005 19 years ago — 78 years old

An American animator, producer, and composer co-founded Filmation Studios, which became a prominent studio in animation during the 1960s and 1970s. The studio was responsible for popularizing animated television series such as 'He-Man and the Masters of the Universe' and 'Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids'. Prescott contributed to the creation of numerous beloved characters and series that defined the era of Saturday morning cartoons. His work in animation helped shape the landscape of children’s programming, making a lasting impact on the industry.

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Gaylord Nelson

American politician; Earth Day founder
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 2005 19 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent American lawyer and politician, served as the 35th Governor of Wisconsin from 1959 to 1963. Later served as a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin from 1963 to 1981. Played a significant role in environmental legislation and is recognized for founding Earth Day in 1970, which celebrated the planet and raised awareness about environmental issues. Advocated for conservation and sustainable development throughout his political career, influencing the environmental movement in the United States.

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Alberto Lattuada

Italian actor and film director
Born
November 13th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 2005 19 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1914, an Italian actor, director, and screenwriter contributed significantly to the Italian cinema. Lattuada began his career in the 1930s, working as an actor before transitioning into directing. He gained recognition for directing films that explored social themes and human emotions. His notable works include 'La lupa' (1953) and 'Il Giovedì' (1964), both of which showcased his distinctive style. Lattuada also collaborated with various prominent actors of the time, enriching the cultural landscape of Italian film.

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Cliff Goupille

Ice hockey player with Toronto Maple Leafs
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2005 19 years ago — 90 years old

Played professional ice hockey in Canada, participating mainly in the National Hockey League (NHL). Goupille represented the Toronto Maple Leafs during his career. Contributions to the team's performance included participation in key games during the 1950s. He also played for other teams in the minor leagues before retiring. After leaving professional sports, Goupille's later years included involvement in community activities until passing away in 2005.

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Hank Stram

American football coach and sportscaster
Born
January 3rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2005 19 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significantly to American football as a coach and sportscaster. Coached the Dallas Texans and Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL, leading the Chiefs to victory in Super Bowl IV. Utilized innovative offensive strategies, including the use of the I-formation, which influenced future coaching methods. Transitioned into broadcasting after coaching, providing analysis for various sports networks.

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James Stockdale

Admiral and Medal of Honor recipient
Born
December 23rd, 1923 101 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2005 19 years ago — 81 years old

A United States Navy admiral and aviator who served during the Vietnam War, received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism as a prisoner of war. Stockdale spent over seven years in captivity, enduring severe hardships and torture. After his release, Stockdale became a prominent author and educator, and served as a Vice Presidential candidate in 1992. His leadership and resilience during captivity significantly contributed to the morale of fellow prisoners.

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Ed McBain

Author known for police procedural novels
Born
October 15th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2005 19 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent American author and screenwriter, contributed significantly to the crime fiction genre. Authored more than 50 novels under the pseudonym Ed McBain, with the 87th Precinct series being the most recognized. The psychological depth and realistic settings in the series influenced many subsequent crime writers. Also earned acclaim for screenwriting, adapting works for television and film. Received multiple awards throughout his career, including the Mystery Writers of America's Edgar Award.

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Claude Simon

Malagasy-French Nobel Prize winning novelist
Born
October 10th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2005 19 years ago — 91 years old

Born in Madagascar and later moving to France, this novelist became a prominent figure in the literary world. The writing style reflected a unique narrative technique and explored themes of memory and time. A major work included 'The Flanders Road', which exemplified the author's innovative approach. This individual's contributions to literature were recognized with the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1985, cementing a legacy in 20th-century writing.

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