What Happened This Year 2015

People Who Died in 2015

Arthur E. Chase

American businessman and politician
Born
February 4th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1930, a businessman and politician contributed to regional economic development and public policy. Served in various leadership roles, including significant political office that influenced local governance. Established a firm reputation in business, focusing on community enrichment and corporate responsibility. Engaged in numerous initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and services within the area.

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Hermann Zapf

Typography and calligraphy expert
Born
November 8th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 97 years old

A German typographer and calligrapher contributed significantly to the field of type design throughout the 20th century. Developed and designed typefaces including Palatino and Zapfino, which became widely used in various media. Created numerous books on typography, calligraphy, and design, demonstrating expertise and artistic vision. Received various awards for contributions to typography and calligraphy, influencing generations of designers.

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Nour El-Sherif

Egyptian actor and producer in cinema
Born
April 28th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 69 years old

Gained prominence in Egyptian cinema during the 1960s. Worked in over 150 films and television series throughout a prolific career. Gained recognition for roles in popular films such as 'The Last Search' and 'The Night of Counting the Years'. Received numerous awards and accolades for performances, including the Best Actor award at the Cairo International Film Festival. Co-founded the Egyptian Actors' Guild and played a pivotal role in improving conditions for performers in the industry. Continued to work actively in film and television until retirement.

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Carlos Alberto Brilhante Ustra

Brazilian colonel and military figure
Born
July 28th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 83 years old

Born on July 28, 1932, a Brazilian colonel served as the chief of police in São Paulo during a period marked by political repression and military rule. Ustra was a prominent figure within the military government that ruled Brazil from 1964 to 1985. His leadership of the DOI-CODI, a notorious branch of the military police focused on political dissent, included involvement in the persecution of leftist activists. Following Brazil's transition to democracy, Ustra faced criticism and legal actions for human rights abuses during his tenure. His life and actions have been the subject of significant historical and cultural discussion in Brazil, reflecting the complexities of military rule in the country.

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Rico Rodriguez

Jamaican trombonist and ska musician
Born
October 17th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1934, a prominent Jamaican trombonist contributed to the development and popularization of ska music. Rodriguez began his career in the 1950s, collaborating with various artists and bands. His work included recordings with The Skatalites, which were crucial in shaping the ska genre. He later moved to the UK, where he furthered his influence in reggae and ska music, performing with notable groups and musicians. His distinctive style and skilled performances earned recognition within the music community.

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Assia Djebar

Author and translator, 'Fantasia'
Born
June 30th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 79 years old

An Algerian-French author and translator, contributed significantly to literature through novels, essays, and plays. Wrote primarily in French, exploring themes of identity, culture, and women's rights in the context of Algerian history. Notable works include 'Fantasia: An Algerian Cavaliers' and 'Women of Algiers in Their Apartment.' Worked as a translator and professor, promoting literary exchange between cultures.

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Richard Anthony

Singer-songwriter, 'Et si tu n'existais pas'
Born
January 13th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 77 years old

Born in Egypt and raised in France, one of the prominent French singers of the 1960s, recognized for a blend of chanson and pop music. Gained popularity with the song 'Et si tu n'existais pas', which became an iconic piece in French music. Released multiple albums throughout his career and contributed significantly to the French music scene with his melodic voice and engaging lyrics. Maintained a loyal fan base and performed across various venues, celebrating his artistic legacy until his passing.

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John Guillermin

Director of 'The Towering Inferno'
Born
November 11th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 90 years old

An English-American director, producer, and screenwriter. Began a career in film during the 1950s, contributing to both British and American cinema. Directed the classic disaster film 'The Towering Inferno' in 1974, which became a hallmark of the genre. Also worked on notable films such as 'The Bridge on the River Kwai' and 'King Kong' (1976), showcasing abilities in both drama and action films. Received praise for innovative storytelling and cinematic techniques throughout his career.

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Gabriele Ferzetti

Italian actor celebrated for cinema roles
Born
March 17th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1925, an Italian actor gained recognition through performances in several prominent films. Achievements spanned from the late 1950s into the 21st century, showcasing a range of characters in both Italian and international cinema. Major roles included the part of the father in the acclaimed film 'The Conformist' directed by Bernardo Bertolucci and a significant character in 'Once Upon a Time in the West' directed by Sergio Leone. His contributions to Italian cinema solidified his legacy within the industry, demonstrating both versatility and depth in performance.

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