What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Marius Russo

American baseball pitcher and player
Born
July 19th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 91 years old

Marius Russo was a professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball (MLB). He debuted with the New York Yankees in 1939 and played for the team until 1942. Russo contributed to the Yankees' success during this period, appearing in multiple World Series. After his tenure with the Yankees, he continued his career with the Chicago White Sox and other teams. His pitching skills and tactical approach made him a valuable player on the mound. Russo also spent time in the minor leagues and served in the military during World War II, which affected his career trajectory. After returning from the service, he continued to play professionally until the early 1950s.

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Oscar Brown

Singer-songwriter and playwright
Born
October 10th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1926, a prominent American singer-songwriter, playwright, and actor. Gained recognition for contributions to music and theater, often addressing social issues through art. Wrote and performed works that blended jazz, blues, and folk styles. Achieved acclaim with Broadway musicals such as 'Calypso Heat Wave' and 'Hausas'. Notable for long-standing involvement in the civil rights movement, using artistic platforms to promote equality and justice.

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Grete Sultan

Pianist and collaborator of John Cage
Born
June 21st, 1906 118 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 99 years old

Born in Germany, a pianist emigrated to the United States in 1938, where significant contributions to contemporary music occurred. Collaborated extensively with composer John Cage, premiering many of his works. Actively performed throughout the 20th century, focusing on 20th-century classical repertoire. Involved in teaching and mentorship, influencing subsequent generations of musicians.

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Luis Taruc

Filipino political activist, Hukbalahap leader
Born
June 21st, 1913 111 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1913, this figure was a prominent Filipino political activist and leader of the Hukbalahap movement, which sought agrarian reform and anti-colonial measures in the Philippines. In the wake of World War II, efforts to address poverty and inequity led to increased support for this movement among farmers. The group became known for its role in guerrilla warfare against Japanese occupation during the war and continued its activism in the post-war period. The government classified the Hukbalahap as a communist insurgency. This individual eventually went into exile in the 1950s and continued to advocate for peasant rights and social justice from abroad. The contributions include efforts toward land reform and mobilization of rural communities.

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Al Casey

Guitarist and composer, 'Surf Rider'
Born
September 15th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent American guitarist and composer, contributions spanned various genres, including rock and instrumental music. Collaborated with notable artists such as Dick Dale and had a significant role in shaping surf music. Best recognized for the composition 'Surf Rider', which became a staple in the genre. Worked extensively as a session musician, contributing to numerous recordings throughout the mid-20th century. His guitar work left a lasting influence on the music scene, particularly within the surf rock movement.

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Jimmy Smith

Jazz organist and bandleader
Born
December 8th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 80 years old

An innovative jazz organist, influenced the sound of jazz music through the use of the Hammond organ. Released numerous albums beginning in the 1950s, including the acclaimed 'Back at the Chicken Shack' and 'Meet Jimmy Smith'. Established a unique blend of jazz, blues, and gospel music, and elevated the popularity of the jazz organ format. Collaborated with various prominent musicians and contributed significantly to the jazz genre, highlighting the expressive capabilities of the organ.

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Henry Corden

Voice actor for cartoon characters
Born
January 6th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 85 years old

Born in Canada, became a prominent voice actor in the United States. Corden is most recognized for providing the voice of Fred Flintstone in the animated television series 'The Flintstones' from 1977 until the end of the series. Corden also voiced numerous characters in various animated series and films including roles in 'The Jetsons' and 'The New Fred and Barney Show'. In addition to voice acting, he appeared in live-action television shows during his early career.

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Jack Keller

Songwriter and producer for pop music
Born
November 11th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1936, this American songwriter and producer contributed significantly to the pop music scene. Keller collaborated with various artists, producing and writing numerous hit songs throughout his career. He worked with well-known musicians and recorded several successful tracks that topped the charts. His style and ability to craft memorable melodies established a strong presence in the music industry during the 1960s and beyond.

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Wendie Jo Sperber

Television actress from 'Bosom Buddies'
Born
September 15th, 1958 66 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 47 years old

An American actress gained prominence in the 1980s and 1990s. Best recognized for roles in the television series 'Bosom Buddies' and 'Felicity', she showcased a range of comedic and dramatic talents. Sperber also appeared in films such as 'I Wanna Hold Your Hand' and 'Big', contributing to her visibility in Hollywood. In addition to her work in front of the camera, she advocated for breast cancer awareness following her diagnosis and played an active role in various charities supporting this cause.

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