What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Jimmy Griffin

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 10th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent American singer-songwriter and guitarist, created significant contributions to the pop and rock music scenes. Became a founding member of the group Bread, which achieved major success during the 1970s. The group is recognized for crafting soft rock hits that resonated with a wide audience. Later ventured into a solo career, producing several albums that showcased personal songwriting skills and melodic guitar work.

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Anatoly Kartashov

Soviet cosmonaut and aviator
Born
August 25th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 73 years old

An aviator and cosmonaut served in the Soviet space program. Completed training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center. Participated in the Salyut program, contributing to space research and exploration. Flew aboard the Salyut 7 space station for a space mission that lasted ten days. Engaged in scientific experiments during the mission, which included the effects of microgravity on biological systems.

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Nel Benschop

Dutch poet and educator with acclaimed works
Born
January 16th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 87 years old

Birth occurred on January 16, 1918. Dedicated work as a poet and educator influenced literary circles. Benschop contributed significantly to Dutch literature, crafting evocative poetry that resonated with readers. As an educator, focused on developing literary skills among students, fostering a love for poetry and literature. Published multiple poetry collections that showcased a unique style, exploring themes of identity, society, and nature. Continued to engage in literary activities throughout life, leaving a lasting imprint on Dutch poetry and education.

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Alexander Gomelsky

Professional basketball coach in USSR
Born
January 18th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent basketball coach, contributed significantly to the development of basketball in the Soviet Union and Russia. Served as head coach for the Soviet national team, leading it to multiple championships in the EuroBasket tournament. Coached club teams including CSKA Moscow, achieving success in the Soviet League. Additionally, made a mark in international basketball by guiding the national team to gold medals in the 1982 FIBA World Championship and the 1988 Seoul Olympics. His career spanned several decades, emphasizing the importance of strategic game play and player development in basketball.

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Dale Messick

Author and illustrator of Brenda Starr
Born
April 11th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 99 years old

An American author and illustrator, significant contributions included the creation of the comic strip Brenda Starr, which debuted in 1940. Messick's work featured a strong female character in the traditionally male-dominated comic industry. The strip garnered a large readership and was notable for its glamorous storytelling and vibrant artwork, continuing for several decades. Messick also became the first female cartoonist to have a comic strip in major syndication, paving the way for future female artists in the field.

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David Kossoff

English actor and screenwriter
Born
November 24th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 86 years old

An English actor and screenwriter, this individual had a prominent career in television and film from the 1950s onwards. Renowned for versatility in roles, notable works included performances in the television series 'The Adventures of Paddington Bear' and films like 'The Spy Who Came in from the Cold'. Contribution to British television and film encompassed not only acting but also writing, with several screenplays to his credit. Often portrayed character roles that showcased a mix of drama and humor.

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Gyula Hernádi

Hungarian author and screenwriter
Born
August 23rd, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1926, this individual contributed significantly to Hungarian literature and cinema. As an author, created several acclaimed works, blending realism with fictional narratives. His screenwriting efforts included several popular Hungarian films, helping shape the film industry in the country. Through both roles, he explored various themes that resonated with audiences, earning recognition within literary and cinematic circles.

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Guy Davenport

American author and literary scholar
Born
November 23rd, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 78 years old

This individual was a significant figure in American literature, recognized for a blend of fiction, essays, and scholarship. A teacher at several institutions, including the University of Kentucky, the work often reflected a deep engagement with classical and modern literature. He published numerous books and essays that explored the intersections of art and literature, showcasing an intellectual rigor that garnered attention. In the 20th century, contributions included critical studies and a rich array of short stories that added depth to the dialogue between modern writing and past influences.

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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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