What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Peter W. Rodino

American lawyer and politician
Born
June 7th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 96 years old

Served as a U.S. Representative for New Jersey from 1949 to 1989. Played a significant role as the Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee during the Watergate scandal, leading the impeachment proceedings against President Richard Nixon. Advocated for civil rights and immigration reform throughout his tenure. Was instrumental in the passage of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, which significantly altered immigration policy in the United States.

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Terri Schiavo

American medical patient advocacy case
Born
December 3rd, 1963 61 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 42 years old

Schiavo became widely recognized following a prolonged legal battle regarding her medical condition, which stemmed from a cardiac arrest in 1990 that resulted in a persistent vegetative state. The case raised significant ethical questions about health care, life support, and patient rights. It attracted national media attention and led to a series of court decisions that extended over several years, involving both her husband and her parents. The situation prompted widespread public debate on end-of-life issues.

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Yon Hyong-muk

North Korean politician and soldier
Born
November 3rd, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 74 years old

Served as a senior military officer and politician in North Korea. Held the position of 7th Premier of North Korea from 1972 to 1976. Participated in major political functions during an era of significant state development. Contributed to military policy and governance under the regime's leadership.

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Ray Peterson

American pop singer with 'Tell Laura I Love Her'
Born
April 23rd, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2005 20 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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Rick Mahler

Baseball player and coach, Atlanta Braves
Born
August 5th, 1953 71 years ago
Died
2005 20 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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Sammi Smith

Country music singer-songwriter, singer
Born
August 5th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
2005 20 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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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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