What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Theodore L. Thomas

Chemical Engineer and Patent Attorney
Born
April 13th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 85 years old

Accomplished in the field of chemical engineering, contributed significantly to patent law and intellectual property rights. Engaged in writing on topics related to engineering and law, providing insights within the professional community. His contributions to the understanding and application of patents in chemical engineering have established him as a notable figure in both engineering and legal circles.

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Grant Johannesen

Pianist and music educator
Born
July 30th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent pianist and educator, showcased solo and chamber music performances across the United States and Europe. Gained recognition for collaborations with notable musicians and orchestras. Served as a professor at various institutions, contributing to the training of numerous students in classical piano. Authored educational materials and recordings that highlight piano techniques and interpretations.

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Colette Besson

French Olympic runner and educator
Born
April 7th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 59 years old

Achieved significant success in athletics, specializing in middle-distance events. Won a gold medal in the 400 meters at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. Competed for France in various athletic championships and contributed to the development of sports education. Served as an educator, promoting athletics and physical education among students.

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Leon Askin

Austrian actor in stage and film
Born
September 18th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1907, an Austrian actor had a prolific career spanning across theater and film. Pursued an education in acting in Vienna before emigrating to the United States in 1938 due to the rise of the Nazi regime. Acted in numerous productions on Broadway and television. Gained recognition for performances in the series 'M*A*S*H' as General Burkhalter and had notable roles in films such as 'The Sound of Music' and 'The Great Race'.

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Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen

Danish bassist and composer
Born
May 27th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 59 years old

Prominent figure in jazz music, primarily recognized for contributions as a bassist and composer. Collaborated with numerous renowned musicians throughout a prolific career, showcasing exceptional technique and creativity. Led various ensembles and participated in many international jazz festivals, highlighting the evolution of jazz expression. His recordings and performances were instrumental in popularizing modern jazz within Europe and beyond.

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Abraham Bueno de Mesquita

Dutch comedian and actor
Born
July 23rd, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1918, a comedian and actor gained prominence in the Netherlands' entertainment scene. His career spanned several decades, with notable performances in both film and television. Featured in popular productions that resonated with audiences, blending humor with cultural commentary. Contributed significantly to comedic arts in Dutch cinema and theater, reflecting social contexts through satire. Continued to influence upcoming generations of performers until the end of his career.

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Cyril Fletcher

English actor and screenwriter
Born
June 25th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 92 years old

An actor and screenwriter, contributions spanned several decades in British television and film. Worked frequently in series such as 'The Frost Report' and appeared in various theatrical productions. As a screenwriter, crafted numerous sketches and comedic pieces that showcased wit and creativity. Gained recognition for work on the BBC and in the West End, maintaining a presence in popular culture throughout the mid-20th century.

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Frank Kelly Freas

Science fiction and fantasy artist
Born
August 22nd, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 83 years old

An American artist specialized in science fiction and fantasy art, contributing significantly to the genre through illustrations for books, magazines, and covers. Worked extensively with publishers, including notable contributions to Analog Science Fiction and Fact. Created iconic imagery for various science fiction authors, including Isaac Asimov and H.G. Wells. Freas's work has been recognized in various exhibitions and collections, showcasing the evolution and richness of science fiction art.

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Dick Weber

Professional bowler and PBA champion
Born
December 23rd, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent figure in professional bowling, Weber competed in the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) and achieved significant accolades throughout a career spanning multiple decades. Weber won 26 PBA Tour titles, including the prestigious PBA National Championship in 1970. He was a key figure in popularizing the sport and served as a mentor to many aspiring bowlers. Weber was inducted into the PBA Hall of Fame in 1975 and the ABC (American Bowling Congress) Hall of Fame in 1987. His contributions to the sport have influenced generations of bowlers.

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