What Happened This Year 2015

People Who Died in 2015

Oliver Sacks

Neurologist and author of 'Awakenings'
Born
July 9th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2015 10 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.

Continue Reading

M. M. Kalburgi

Indian scholar and academic author
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 77 years old

An influential scholar and academic focused on Kannada literature and philosophy. Authored several notable works that addressed various aspects of literature and cultural critique. Contributed to the academic community through teaching at multiple institutions. Participated in intellectual discourses regarding social issues and literary traditions, enhancing the understanding of Kannada heritage. His work engaged with themes of social reform and ethics within literature.

Continue Reading

Marvin Mandel

Lawyer and 56th Governor of Maryland
Born
April 19th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 95 years old

Served as the 56th Governor of Maryland from 1969 to 1979. Managed various legislative initiatives during tenure. Navigated the state through economic challenges and implemented educational reforms. Oversaw the establishment of various state programs. Practiced law before entering politics, holding positions such as a Maryland State Senator prior to governorship.

Continue Reading

Tom Scott

American football player and coach
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old

Played as a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL) for the Minnesota Vikings. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing, serving as an assistant coach for several collegiate teams. Contributed to the development of players during coaching tenure.

Continue Reading

Dean Jones

Actor in The Love Bug and That Darn Cat
Born
January 25th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 84 years old

An American actor and singer, became widely recognized for performances in family-oriented films during the 1960s and 1970s. Featured prominently in Disney classics such as The Love Bug, where portrayed Jim Douglas, and That Darn Cat, showcasing vocal talent alongside dramatic skills. Also involved in television, highlighting a successful run in series like The Absent-Minded Professor.

Continue Reading

Richard G. Hewlett

Historian and author on atomic energy
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old

Focused on the history of atomic energy and its impact on society. Hewlett authored several influential works, including 'Atomic Energy and the Presidency' and 'Regulating the Atom'. His scholarship contributed to the understanding of nuclear policies and their historical context. Served as a historian for the American Institute of Physics, gathering and preserving significant historical documents related to nuclear science. Engaged in educational and outreach activities to raise awareness about the history of atomic energy.

Continue Reading

Ben Kuroki

American pilot and World War II sergeant
Born
May 16th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 98 years old

Served as a pilot in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Kuroki flew combat missions in the Pacific Theater and became the first Japanese American to be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. His military career included significant contributions to aerial bombing campaigns against enemy targets. After the war, Kuroki returned to civilian life and continued to advocate for Japanese American rights.

Continue Reading

Gurgen Dalibaltayan

Armenian General and Military Leader
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old

An Armenian general served as a key military leader during the Nagorno-Karabakh War. Held the position of Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Armenia. Played a significant role in military strategy and operations, contributing to the establishment and defense of Armenian territorial integrity.

Continue Reading

Chandra Bahadur Dangi

World Record Holder for Shortest Man
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 76 years old

Born in Nepal, achieved the title of the shortest adult man in recorded history. Dangi measured 54.6 cm (21.5 in) tall. He received recognition from the Guinness World Records in 2012, drawing significant media attention. Dangi traveled internationally, participating in various events and interviews as representatives of the record holding community. His stature and achievement brought awareness to the condition of dwarfism.

Continue Reading