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.

Continue Reading

Michael Masser

Songwriter and music producer
Born
March 24th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent songwriter and music producer, contributions spanned several decades, with notable collaborations with various artists. Masser achieved recognition for writing songs for top charting artists and produced successful albums. Significant works include 'The Greatest Love of All' and 'Touch Me in the Morning' performed by Whitney Houston and Diana Ross, respectively. His work in the music industry helped shape popular music during the 1970s and 1980s.

Continue Reading

Gerda van der Kade-Koudijs

Dutch athlete, Olympic long jumper
Born
October 29th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 92 years old

Competed in athletics, specializing in long jump, hurdles, and running events. Participated in the 1948 Summer Olympics representing the Netherlands. Recorded a personal best in long jump, showcasing notable performance during the late 1940s and early 1950s. Contributed to the establishment of women's athletics in the Netherlands during her active years.

Continue Reading

Erol Büyükburç

Turkish pop singer-songwriter and actor
Born
March 22nd, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 79 years old

Erol Büyükburç emerged as a significant figure in Turkish pop music during the 1960s and 1970s. With a career spanning several decades, he not only composed and performed popular songs but also acted in films. His musical style blended traditional Turkish music with contemporary pop elements, attracting a wide audience. Büyükburç's contributions to the Turkish music scene made him a beloved personality, and his works resonated with the cultural landscape of the time.

Continue Reading

Teresa Gorman

English politician and educator
Born
September 30th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 84 years old

An educator and politician, served as a Conservative Member of Parliament from 1987 to 1997. Advocated for education reform and worked on various educational committees during tenure. Contributed to discussions on social and economic policies. Played a role in standing committees and was involved in initiatives that aimed to enhance educational standards across the UK. Engaged in local political matters and prioritization of community issues, influencing local governance and education.

Continue Reading

Licio Gelli

Italian financer of Propaganda Due
Born
April 21st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 96 years old

A financier associated with a clandestine Masonic lodge, heavily involved in Italian conspiracy and political maneuvering during the Cold War. Established the Propaganda Due (P2) lodge, which gained notoriety for its connections to various political figures, financial institutions, and illegal activities. The activities and influence of P2 were pivotal during a tumultuous period in Italian history, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s. Gelli's role in the lodge included orchestrating efforts that tied together interests across politics, business, and organized crime, causing significant political scandals and controversies in Italy.

Continue Reading

J. P. Parisé

Ice hockey player and coach
Born
December 11th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 74 years old

Played as a forward in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the New York Rangers, Minnesota North Stars, and the California Golden Seals. Transitioned to coaching and management roles following a playing career, contributing to the development of future players and teams. Served as head coach for the Maine Mariners and later worked in player development with several professional teams. Recognition included being an active part of the hockey community through mentorship and guidance in the sport.

Continue Reading

Sheila Kitzinger

Childbirth activist and author
Born
March 29th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 86 years old

An influential childbirth activist and author, focused on women's rights in maternity care. Published numerous books on childbirth and women's experiences, including 'The Childbirth Book' and 'Women as Mothers.' Engaged in discussions surrounding the medicalization of childbirth and advocated for women's autonomy in childbirth choices. Worked alongside various organizations to promote midwifery and respectful maternity care, contributing to the dialogue on women's rights in healthcare settings.

Continue Reading

Derek Minter

English motorcycle racer, Isle of Man TT winner
Born
April 27th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 83 years old

Participated in motorcycle road racing throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Achieved significant success in the Isle of Man TT races, securing his place in motorcycle racing history. Competed in various championships and gained a reputation for exceptional skills on the track. Minter contributed to the popularity of motorcycle racing in the UK during his active years.

Continue Reading