What Happened This Year 2015

People Who Died in 2015

Robert Dewar

Computer Scientist and Academic Work
Born
June 21st, 1945 80 years ago
Died
June 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 70 years old

Contributed significantly to programming languages and systems, primarily through work on the Ada programming language. Co-founded AdaCore, which specializes in software development solutions. Focused on providing tools and support for Ada, enhancing its use in critical systems. Worked on various academic and industrial projects aimed at improving software reliability and safety.

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Val Doonican

Irish singer and television host
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old

An Irish singer and television host achieved prominence in the entertainment industry during the 1960s and 1970s. Known for a distinctive style combining traditional Irish music with popular contemporary songs, hosted a successful television variety show, 'The Val Doonican Show', which featured musical performances and light comedy. His warm personality and engaging presence drew a loyal audience in the UK and Ireland. Released numerous albums throughout his career, showcasing a blend of folk and pop music. Continued to perform well into the 1990s, maintaining popularity with fans of all ages.

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Czesław Olech

Mathematician and academic from Poland
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 84 years old

Contributions spanned topology, algebra, and functional analysis. Worked as a professor at the University of Warsaw, influencing many students in the field of mathematics. Engaged in various scholarly publications and conferences, fostering mathematical understanding. Active member of mathematical societies and organizations, promoting research and education in mathematics throughout Poland. Received recognition for academic achievements and impact on mathematics education.

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Nicholas Winton

Humanitarian known for saving children
Born
May 19th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 106 years old

A banker and humanitarian organized the rescue of 669 children, mostly Jewish, from Czechoslovakia before World War II. The effort took place in 1939, facilitating their travel to safety in the United Kingdom. Winton maintained secrecy about the operation for many years, but after details emerged, efforts to acknowledge his work gained attention. In addition to his humanitarian efforts, he played a role in various charitable initiatives later in life, receiving honors for his contributions to society.

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Jacobo Zabludovsky

Mexican journalist and news anchor
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent figure in Mexican journalism, this individual led a long and influential career, primarily recognized for hosting the news program '24 Horas' on Televisa. The program became a staple of Mexican television for several decades, shaping public perception and discourse. Not only did this journalist investigate and report on key national events, but also covered major historical moments in Mexico’s modern history, such as the 1985 Mexico City earthquake. After stepping back from mainstream journalism, continued to contribute to the field through commentary and analysis, providing insights on various socio-political issues until passing away in 2015.

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Jim Weaver

American football player and coach
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 70 years old

Played college football at the University of Oregon. Coached multiple high school teams and served as an assistant coach at the collegiate level. Led the University of Oregon to a bowl appearance as head coach in 1980. Contributed to the development of several players who went on to play professionally.

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Charlie Sanders

American football player, sportscaster
Born
August 25th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 68 years old

Played as a tight end for the Detroit Lions in the NFL from 1968 to 1977. After retirement, transitioned to a career in broadcasting, providing analysis and commentary on NFL games. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2007.

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Diana Douglas

Actress, known for 'The Red Danube'
Born
January 22nd, 1923 103 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1923, this British-American actress gained recognition for her work in film and television. Prominent roles included appearances in 'The Red Danube' and the television series 'The Detectives'. Throughout a career spanning several decades, she showcased talent in both supporting and lead roles, contributing to various productions in Hollywood and television. Continuing to act into her later years, she maintained a presence in the entertainment industry until her retirement.

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Boyd K. Packer

Religious leader and educator
Born
September 10th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 90 years old

Served as the 26th President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Actively participated in church education programs and emphasized the importance of family, faith, and moral teachings. Engaged in the development of religious curriculum and produced several influential writings on faith and doctrine. Through leadership roles, contributed to the growth and direction of the church.

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