What Happened This Year 2015

People Who Died in 2015

Joël Champetier

Canadian author and screenwriter
Born
November 30th, 1957 67 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 57 years old

An author and screenwriter with a focus on genre fiction and screenplays, Champetier published several noteworthy works. Contributions to the literary field include novels within the science fiction and fantasy genres. Champetier also wrote screenplays, which gained attention in the Canadian film industry. His works often explore themes of human experience and imagination, resonating with diverse audiences. Active in the Canadian literary community, he participated in various writing workshops and conventions, contributing to the development of emerging writers.

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L. Tom Perry

American businessman and religious leader
Born
August 5th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent religious leader within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Served as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles from 1974 until death. Held various leadership roles within the church including overseeing the church's business and welfare operations. Advocated for education and self-reliance throughout his ministry.

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Beau Biden

American politician and Attorney General
Born
February 3rd, 1969 56 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 46 years old

Served as the 44th Attorney General of Delaware from 2007 to 2015. Discharged from the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General's Corps after serving in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Practiced law after returning and focused on consumer protection and public safety. Ran for governor of Delaware in 2016 but died before the election.

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Jacques Parizeau

Economist, 26th Premier of Quebec
Born
August 9th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
June 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 84 years old

An economist and politician served as the 26th Premier of Quebec. Contributed to the development of the Parti Québécois, a political party advocating for Quebec sovereignty. Championed the idea of an independent Quebec during his tenure, leading the province during the 1995 referendum on sovereignty. His government faced challenges related to economic issues and national identity, influencing Quebec's political landscape.

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Joan Kirner

Australian politician, 42nd Premier of Victoria
Born
June 20th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
June 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 76 years old

Served as the 42nd Premier of Victoria from 1990 to 1992. Was the first female Premier of Victoria and a member of the Australian Labor Party. Had a significant role in education as an educator and advocate for women's rights throughout her career. Played a key part in various initiatives aimed at improving state services and policies.

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Nicholas Liverpool

Lawyer and 6th President of Dominica
Born
September 9th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
June 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the sixth President of Dominica from 2003 to 2012. Prior to the presidency, held key roles in government, including Minister of Education and Minister of Health. Contributed to legal reforms in the country and played a significant role in shaping national policies. Engaged in various diplomatic efforts and represented Dominica in international forums during presidency. Pursued a legal career and became a respected figure in the legal community.

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Jean Ritchie

American folk singer and songwriter
Born
December 8th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
June 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent figure in American folk music, Ritchie contributed significantly to the preservation and popularization of traditional Appalachian music. Born in Kentucky, she began her career in the 1940s, sharing songs that highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the region. Ritchie's music often featured instruments such as the dulcimer, which she helped to revive among folk musicians. Throughout her career, she recorded numerous albums and published several songbooks, influencing generations of folk artists. Ritchie was also involved in the development of folk music education and was a beloved figure within the folk music community until her passing.

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Charles Kennedy

Scottish politician and journalist
Born
November 25th, 1959 65 years ago
Died
June 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 55 years old

A Scottish politician and journalist, this individual served as the leader of the Liberal Democrats from 1999 to 2006. Elected as a Member of Parliament in 1983, he represented the Ross, Skye and Lochaber constituency. He addressed key issues such as education, health, and civil liberties. As party leader, he advocated for electoral reform and was a prominent voice against the Iraq War, influencing party policies and public opinion during his tenure. After resigning from leadership, continued to contribute to political discourse until passing in 2015.

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Fernando de Araújo

East Timorese politician, President
Born
1963 62 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 52 years old

Served as the President of East Timor from 2007 to 2012. Played a significant role in the early political landscape of East Timor following its independence from Indonesia. Participated in the formation of the National Council of Timorese Resistance, advocating for the rights and independence of the East Timorese people. Held several ministerial positions before assuming the presidency, contributing to the development of government structures.

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