What Happened This Year 2015

People Who Died in 2015

Johnny Gimble

Country western swing musician
Born
May 30th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent country and western swing musician, this individual played the fiddle with various notable bands, including the Texas Playboys. Contributions to the genre included performances alongside major artists and participation in influential recordings. The musician's talents extended to television, where appearances on shows like the Grand Ole Opry further solidified a legacy in country music. This artist earned recognition as a master of the fiddle, known for a unique style that blended traditional elements with innovative improvisation.

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Kep Enderby

Australian lawyer and Attorney-General
Born
June 25th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 89 years old

An Australian lawyer, judge, and politician served as the 23rd Attorney-General for Australia. Held various roles within the legal and political realms, including as a judge. Contributed to the legal landscape and governmental processes during tenure, focusing on legal reforms and public service.

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Nigel Boocock

Motorcycle racer, competed in the GP
Born
September 17th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 78 years old

Born in England, a prominent motorcycle racer competed in Grand Prix motorcycle racing during the 1950s and 1960s. Relocated to Australia where continued racing. Achieved notable success in various competitions and was recognized for skill in speedway racing, particularly in the 1960s. Career included participation in several international events and earned respect in the motorcycle racing community.

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Keith Harris

Ventriloquist and singer with comedic acts
Born
September 21st, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent ventriloquist and singer from England, recognized for performances that featured puppets including the character Orville the Duck. Achieved success on television, particularly with appearances on shows such as 'The Keith Harris Show' and 'The Royal Variety Performance'. Gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, attracting audiences with humorous ventriloquism routines and musical performances, often involving his puppet sidekicks. After decades in entertainment, continued to perform in various venues until later years.

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Phil "Philthy Animal" Taylor

Rock Drummer for Motörhead
Born
September 21st, 1954 71 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 61 years old

Phil Taylor was an English rock drummer best known for his work with the heavy metal band Motörhead. Joining the band in 1975, he contributed to the band's signature sound and was integral to their success through the late 1970s and 1980s. Taylor's drumming style and energetic performances defined the rhythm of classic tracks. He played on classic albums including 'Overkill', 'Bomber', and 'Ace of Spades', which solidified Motörhead's reputation in the heavy metal genre. Taylor left the band in 1992 but rejoined for various reunions, contributing to later albums.

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Janez Strnad

Physicist and academic from Slovenia
Born
March 4th, 1934 92 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 81 years old

Contributed to the field of physics through academic work and research. Held a significant position in the academic community and published numerous scientific papers. Engaged in the development of advanced theoretical models in physics and mentored many students throughout an extensive academic career.

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Bob Appleyard

Cricketer and businessman with Yorkshire
Born
June 27th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 91 years old

An English cricketer played for Yorkshire County Cricket Club from 1949 to 1964. Achieved renowned first-class cricket career, taking over 1,700 wickets. Represented England in Test matches from 1954 to 1962, contributing to memorable victories. Also engaged in a successful business career post-retirement.

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Indra Bania

Indian actor and director of stage plays
Born
December 24th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 73 years old

Active in the Indian theater scene, contributed significantly to the development and promotion of stage plays. Directed and acted in multiple acclaimed productions, showcasing linguistic and cultural depth. Engaged audiences through innovative storytelling and powerful performances while collaborating with various local theater groups.

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Setsuko Hara

Japanese actress renowned for cinema classics
Born
June 17th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 95 years old

An acclaimed actress in Japanese cinema, recognized for performances in key films during the post-war era. Worked extensively with director Yasujirō Ozu, contributing to the emergence of modern Japanese film. Featured in notable films including 'Tokyo Story' and 'Late Spring', which are considered masterpieces of cinema. Became a prominent figure in the industry and influenced future generations of filmmakers and actors, while her work remains deeply celebrated in film studies and retrospectives.

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