What Happened This Year 2015

People Who Died in 2015

Eddie Hardin

English singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
February 19th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 66 years old

An English singer-songwriter and pianist, active in the music industry since the late 1960s. Rose to prominence as a member of the band The Spencer Davis Group, contributing to the group's sound and success during that period. Later pursued a solo career and worked on various musical projects, demonstrating versatility in songwriting and performance. Collaborated with several artists and participated in different musical genres over the decades.

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Nour El-Sherif

Egyptian actor and producer in cinema
Born
April 28th, 1946 78 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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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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John Renbourn

Guitarist and songwriter, 'The Pentangle'
Born
August 8th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent English-Scottish guitarist and songwriter, recognized for contributions to folk and blues music. Renbourn was a founding member of the influential folk group The Pentangle, which blended traditional British folk with jazz and blues elements. The group achieved significant success in the late 1960s and early 1970s, with a distinctive sound characterized by the interplay of guitar lines and vocal harmonies. Renbourn's solo work included several albums, showcasing fingerstyle guitar techniques and original compositions. Collaborations with various musicians and participation in live performances further established his musical legacy.

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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.

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Bob Farrell

Businessman, founded Farrell's Ice Cream
Born
December 10th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 88 years old

A businessman established the first Farrell's Ice Cream Parlour in 1961 in Portland, Oregon. The ice cream shop became known for its distinctive decor and lively atmosphere, featuring a safari theme, along with elaborate ice cream sundaes. The parlour expanded rapidly, opening locations throughout the United States during the 1970s. The unique experience and themed presentation attracted families and children, creating lasting memories. Farrell’s became a cultural phenomenon and has seen resurgences in popularity through franchise opportunities.

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C. K. Williams

American poet and translator, Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
November 4th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1936, a prominent American poet, critic, and translator. Authored several collections of poetry, highlighting the complexities of personal and societal issues. Some works include 'The Singing' and 'Flesh and Blood,' which explore themes of human experience and emotion. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1988 for the collection 'The Singing.' Held various teaching positions at universities, influencing a generation of writers and poets through workshops and lectures.

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Robert V. Keeley

U.S. Ambassador to Greece
Born
September 4th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 86 years old

A Lebanese-American soldier and diplomat held the position of United States Ambassador to Greece from 1977 to 1980. Prior to this role, served in various capacities within the U.S. State Department, where significant contributions were made during a period of both geopolitical tension and diplomatic efforts in the Eastern Mediterranean. The military service included notable experiences during events such as the Korean War. After the ambassadorship, continued involvement in diplomatic missions and received recognition for service and commitment to international relations.

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Derek Minter

English motorcycle racer, Isle of Man TT winner
Born
April 27th, 1932 92 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.

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