What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Franco Mannino

Italian composer and conductor
Born
April 25th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1924, an Italian composer and conductor created numerous operas and orchestral works. Served as the principal conductor for the Teatro Massimo in Palermo. Directed and composed music for various theatrical productions, including works for both stage and film. His compositions typically blend traditional Italian music with contemporary styles.

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Molly Yard

American feminist and activist leader
Born
July 6th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent feminist leader with significant contributions to women's rights and gender equality. Served as the president of the National Organization for Women (NOW) from 1987 to 1991, strengthening the organization's advocacy efforts. Actively engaged in legislative battles for women's reproductive rights, workplace equality, and anti-violence initiatives. Advocated for the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment and worked tirelessly to advance feminist causes throughout her career.

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Myron Floren

Accordionist on The Lawrence Welk Show
Born
November 5th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 86 years old

An American accordionist and pianist gained prominence through performances on The Lawrence Welk Show, showcasing musical talent throughout the 1950s to the 1980s. Celebrated for a distinct playing style and engaging personality, contributed significantly to the show's success and popularity, becoming a familiar face for audiences. Developed an early interest in music, mastering the accordion and later performing alongside renowned musicians, solidifying a place in American popular music culture. Continued to perform and record music, influencing the accordion community and aspiring musicians.

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Akira Yoshizawa

Japanese origami artist and innovator
Born
March 14th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 94 years old

An origami artist and teacher, this individual developed innovative folding techniques that transformed the art of paper folding into a recognized art form. Worked tirelessly to promote origami as an art and science, establishing various educational programs and workshops around the globe. Published multiple influential books on origami that showcased unique designs and methods. Contributed significantly to origami's recognition and appreciation worldwide, bridging artistic and mathematical concepts in the practice.

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Candy Barr

Model, dancer, actress in adult films
Born
July 6th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 70 years old

An American model, dancer, and actress rose to prominence in the 1950s as a notable figure in the adult film industry. Barr gained a reputation for her performances and presence in various productions during the golden age of adult entertainment. In addition to film work, she performed as a dancer in nightclubs, showcasing her talents and contributing to the era's entertainment landscape. Over the years, Barr's prominence fostered a legacy within the adult film community, influencing subsequent generations of performers.

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Emmett Leith

Professor of electrical engineering, holography
Born
March 12th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 78 years old

American professor of electrical engineering contributed significantly to the field of holography. Co-invented three-dimensional holography in the 1960s, a revolutionary development in the technique of capturing and reproducing light fields. This work allowed for realistic visual representation in various applications, including telecommunications and data storage. Had a notable academic career, holding a position at the University of Michigan, where many students were influenced by his research and teachings. Authored numerous papers and participated in various conferences, further advancing studies in optics and imaging.

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Sammi Smith

Country music singer-songwriter, singer
Born
August 5th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1943, a prominent American country music singer-songwriter gained popularity in the 1970s. The signature song, "Help Me Make It Through the Night," reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earned a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance in 1971. Smith recorded several albums and contributed to the genre's development, showcasing a distinct style that resonated with audiences. Over the years, her work continued to influence other artists and shape the landscape of country music.

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Rick Mahler

Baseball player and coach, Atlanta Braves
Born
August 5th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 52 years old

Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1979 to 1991, participating primarily with the Atlanta Braves. After his playing career, transitioned into coaching roles in various baseball programs. Assisted in the development of young players and contributed to training staff, further enriching the baseball community.

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Ray Peterson

American pop singer with 'Tell Laura I Love Her'
Born
April 23rd, 1939 87 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1939, a pop singer rose to prominence in the late 1950s. Released the hit single 'Tell Laura I Love Her' in 1960, which reached the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Associated with the traditional pop genre, recorded several albums throughout the 1960s, capturing the attention of audiences with heartfelt ballads and smooth melodies. Later in his career, embraced the country music genre and continued to perform, maintaining a dedicated fan base. His contributions to music continue to resonate in the pop and country genres.

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