What Happened This Year 2015

People Who Died in 2015

Mattiwilda Dobbs

Soprano and actress in opera productions
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2015 9 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent soprano and actress, achieved significant recognition in the opera world. Gained fame for performances with the New York City Opera, particularly in productions such as 'Aida' and 'Porgy and Bess'. Also noted for an extensive concert career, including major performances at the Metropolitan Opera. Contributed to expanding representation of African American artists in classical music and opera. Continued to be active in mentoring young singers throughout career.

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Alan Hodgkinson

Footballer and coach, Sheffield United
Born
August 16th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2015 9 years ago — 79 years old

A former English footballer and coach, contributed significantly to the football world. Played as a goalkeeper for various clubs including Sheffield United, where tenure included notable performances. Transitioned into coaching, helping to develop young talents and contributing to club management. Involved in football for several decades, influencing the sport through both playing and coaching roles.

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Soshana Afroyim

Austrian painter with unique visions
Born
September 1st, 1927 98 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2015 9 years ago — 88 years old

Born in Austria, a painter developed a unique style that combined abstraction with elements of surrealism. The body of work included vibrant colors and intricate patterns that conveyed emotional depth and complexity. Exhibited in several galleries and museums, art pieces became part of various collections. Contributions to the art world highlighted the fusion of cultural influences and personal experiences, enriching the contemporary art scene. The painter's works have been displayed across Europe and have garnered appreciation from both critics and art enthusiasts.

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Julio Terrazas Sandoval

Bolivian cardinal and religious leader
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2015 9 years ago — 79 years old

Served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church and as the Archbishop of Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Contributed to the spiritual and social life of Bolivia, overseeing various diocesan activities and initiatives. Participated in the conclave that elected Pope Francis in 2013, marking a significant moment in the church's history. Dedicated efforts to address social issues within Bolivia, promoting education and community development.

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Norman Breslow

Statistician with significant academic contributions
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2015 9 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent statistician and academic contributed extensively to biostatistics and epidemiology. Worked on important statistical methods and model development, impacting various fields including public health. Served as a professor at the University of Washington, influencing many students and researchers in the statistical community. Published numerous research papers, advancing methodologies for analyzing complex data. Involved in various national statistical programs that shaped research practices.

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Juvenal Juvêncio

Brazilian politician and lawyer
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2015 9 years ago — 81 years old

Served as a prominent lawyer and politician in Brazil. Juvêncio held the position of Deputy in the Federal Legislative Assembly. Engaged in significant legal and political activities. Participated actively in social and political issues throughout his career. Contributed to legislative processes and governance in Brazil. Also involved in local political initiatives.

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Ron Bouchard

Race car driver and businessman
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2015 9 years ago — 67 years old

Bouchard competed in the NASCAR Cup Series during the 1980s. He achieved his most notable success in 1981 by winning the NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year award. Bouchard also won the 1981 Talladega 500, which marked his first and only victory in the NASCAR Cup Series. After retiring from racing, he transitioned to a career in business, operating a successful used car dealership.

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Arnold Peralta

Honduran footballer with FC Motagua
Born
1989 36 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2015 9 years ago — 26 years old

A professional footballer played as a midfielder primarily for FC Motagua in Honduras. Represented the national team from 2010 to 2015, participating in World Cup qualifiers. Contributed to multiple league titles during tenure with FC Motagua. Tragically passed away in 2015.

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Dolph Schayes

Basketball player and coach, NBA All-Star
Born
May 19th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2015 9 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent basketball figure, played as a power forward and center in the NBA from 1948 to 1964. Spent the majority of career with the Syracuse Nationals, leading the team to the 1955 NBA Championship. After retirement from playing, transitioned to coaching, guiding teams in the ABA and NBA. Schayes's contributions to the game encompassed scoring, rebounding, and defensive prowess, establishing him as a key player during the early years of professional basketball.

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