What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Lúcia Santos

Portuguese nun and visionary
Born
1907 118 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2005 20 years ago — 98 years old

A Portuguese nun, played a significant role in promoting devotion to Our Lady of Fatima. Reported three major appearances of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children in 1917 in Fatima, Portugal. These apparitions drew global attention and led to the Catholic Church recognizing the events as significant within the wider context of Marian apparitions. Lúcia dedicated her life to the religious life, joining the Carmelite Order and authoring numerous writings about the messages delivered during the apparitions.

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Nelson Briles

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
August 5th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2005 20 years ago — 61 years old

Professional baseball athlete participated in Major League Baseball from 1960 to 1978. Played as a pitcher for teams including the St. Louis Cardinals, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Kansas City Royals. Contributed to the Cardinals' victory in the 1964 World Series. After retiring from playing, transitioned to a career in sports broadcasting, sharing insights and commentary on various networks.

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Pierre Bachelet

French singer-songwriter with hit songs
Born
May 25th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
February 15th, 2005 20 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent figure in French music, gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s. Best recognized for romantic ballads, particularly 'Les Tapes de la Vie' and 'Emmanuelle.' His lyrical style and melodic tunes resonated with audiences, making him a staple of the French chanson genre. Throughout a successful career, collaborated with various musicians and produced numerous albums. Continued to write and perform until the late stages of life, maintaining a loyal fan base.

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Omar Sívori

Argentinian footballer and manager
Born
October 2nd, 1935 89 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2005 20 years ago — 69 years old

Played as a forward in football, representing Argentina and Italy. Sívori began his career with River Plate, winning the Copa Libertadores in 1966. Later, he joined Juventus, where he won multiple Serie A titles and the Coppa Italia. Sívori earned the Ballon d'Or in 1961, becoming the first South American to receive the award. Transitioned to management after his playing career, overseeing teams in Argentina and abroad.

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Dan O'Herlihy

Irish-American actor in 'Robinson Crusoe'
Born
May 1st, 1919 105 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2005 20 years ago — 85 years old

An Irish-American actor noted for a prominent career in film and television. Played the title role in the film 'Robinson Crusoe' (1954), which garnered significant acclaim. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for the role in 'All the King's Men' (1949). Portrayed characters in various television series, including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Last Days of World War II'.

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John Raitt

Broadway actor and singer with iconic roles
Born
January 29th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 88 years old

An American actor and singer, recognized for contributions to the musical theater scene, particularly during the mid-20th century. Starred in original productions of notable musicals such as 'Oklahoma!' and 'Carousel'. Worked extensively in both Broadway and television, delivering memorable performances that showcased a powerful voice and dynamic stage presence. Influenced many performers in the musical genre and left a lasting legacy in theater.

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Hunter S. Thompson

American journalist and author of Gonzo
Born
July 18th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent journalist and author, this individual pioneered the Gonzo journalism style, blending fact and fiction in a unique way. The book 'Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas' became a significant work, illustrating the counterculture of the 1970s. By integrating personal experiences with political commentary, the individual provided a critical view of American society. The work received adaptation into a film, further popularizing this person's distinctive style. Contributions also included regular articles for various publications, particularly detailing the 1972 presidential campaign and other significant events.

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Sandra Dee

American actress, starred in Gidget
Born
April 23rd, 1942 82 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 62 years old

An actress achieved fame during the 1950s and 1960s. Gained recognition for starring in films such as 'Gidget', 'A Summer Place', and 'Take Her, She's Mine'. Appeared in numerous television shows, becoming a popular figure in teen films. Became a teen idol and appeared on magazine covers, symbolizing the era's youth culture. Struggled with personal challenges later in life.

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Zdzisław Beksiński

Polish painter and surrealist artist
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2005 20 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1929, an artist focused on surrealist themes through painting, photography, and sculpture. Created haunting and dystopian imagery, with works often described as nightmarish. Lived in Warsaw, evolving a distinctive style characterized by intricate details and a dark palette. Emphasized themes of death and decay, influencing contemporary art. Despite a tragic end to life in 2005, his works are celebrated in galleries worldwide, solidifying his position in the art community.

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