What Happened This Year 2015

People Who Died in 2015

Francisco San Diego

Filipino bishop and educator
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2015 9 years ago — 80 years old

Served as a bishop in the Philippines, focusing on the spiritual guidance of the Catholic community. Contributed to the educational sector by promoting Catholic education and fostering religious values among the youth. Advocated for social justice and supported numerous community initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of the marginalized. Led various parishes, providing leadership and direction within the Church during his tenure.

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Amelia Boynton Robinson

American civil rights activist and leader
Born
August 18th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2015 9 years ago — 104 years old

Born in 1911, this activist played a pivotal role in the struggle for civil rights in the United States. Actively participated in the Selma to Montgomery marches and was one of the first African American women to run for Congress from Alabama. Contributed to the establishment of the Selma Voting Rights Movement and was a key figure in advocating for voting rights for African Americans. Her work garnered national attention, leading to greater awareness of civil rights issues in the 1960s.

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Pascal Chaumeil

Film director and screenwriter, 'Heartbreaker'
Born
1961 64 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2015 9 years ago — 54 years old

Directed multiple films, combining comedy and romance. Gained recognition for the film 'Heartbreaker', which featured a storyline involving an unconventional mission to break up a wedding. Worked on various projects in both television and cinema, contributing to the French film industry. Directed the film 'The Tuche Family', achieving commercial success. Chaumeil's contributions also extended to screenwriting, collaborating with other filmmakers to craft engaging narratives.

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Darryl Dawkins

Basketball player, Chocolate Thunder
Born
January 11th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2015 9 years ago — 58 years old

An American basketball player and coach, gained recognition during the 1970s and 1980s. Played as a center and power forward, primarily for the Philadelphia 76ers and the New Jersey Nets in the NBA. Known for his powerful dunks and flamboyant personality, earned the nickname 'Chocolate Thunder.' Innovated the game with his expressive approach to dunking, including shattering backboards, which led to the NBA adopting new rules regarding backboard breakage. Transitioned into coaching after his playing career, mentoring young athletes and contributing to basketball at various levels.

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Al Arbour

Ice hockey coach and player, 4-time Cup winner
Born
November 1st, 1932 92 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2015 9 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1932, this individual played in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily for the Detroit Red Wings and New York Rangers. Transitioning to coaching, led the New York Islanders to four consecutive Stanley Cup championships from 1980 to 1983. The coaching tenure included several successful seasons and the establishment of a prominent team in the league. After retiring, served as a consultant and remained involved in hockey operations.

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Nelson Shanks

American painter and portrait artist
Born
December 23rd, 1937 87 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2015 9 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent American painter, historian, and educator, celebrated for contributions to the portrait genre. Shanks studied at the Art Students League of New York and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Notable works include commissioned portraits of various U.S. presidents and prominent figures. His teaching career encompassed roles at respected institutions, where he influenced emerging artists through comprehensive programs in classical techniques and art history. Shanks's approach combined traditional methods with modern sensibilities, shaping the understanding of portraiture in contemporary art.

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Mark Krasniqi

Kosovan ethnographer and poet
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2015 9 years ago — 95 years old

An ethnographer, poet, and translator, contributed significantly to the understanding of Kosovan culture and history. Worked extensively in the field of ethnography, documenting the life and traditions of various communities in Kosovo. Published several collections of poetry, reflecting the cultural heritage of the region. Engaged in translating literary works, fostering cross-cultural dialogue through literature.

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Wes Craven

Horror film director and screenwriter
Born
August 2nd, 1939 85 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2015 9 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent figure in the horror genre, this director significantly shaped modern horror cinema. This individual directed iconic films that include 'A Nightmare on Elm Street' and the 'Scream' series. These works introduced innovative storytelling techniques and distinct character tropes, influencing subsequent filmmakers. Alongside directing, contributions to screenwriting and production further established a lasting legacy in the horror film landscape.

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Oliver Sacks

Neurologist and author of 'Awakenings'
Born
July 9th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2015 9 years ago — 82 years old

A neurologist and author, contributions focused on the human side of neurological disorders. Achieved prominence through the book 'Awakenings', which detailed the treatment of patients affected by encephalitis lethargica. Explored complex neurological conditions in works such as 'The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat' and 'An Anthropologist on Mars'. Engaged with both scientific and literary communities, delivering insights into the lives of individuals with neurological conditions. Served as a professor of neurology at the New York University School of Medicine and was a frequent contributor to The New York Review of Books.

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