What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Norman C. Deno

Chemist and plant scientist
Born
February 15th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 96 years old

A chemist and plant scientist focused on the development of various scientific methodologies. Contributed significantly to research in organic chemistry and plant sciences, particularly in the area of phenolic compounds. Served as a professor at the University of Illinois, guiding numerous students in the field of chemistry. Made notable advancements in the understanding of the synthesis and properties of plant compounds, influencing future studies in the discipline.

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John B. Anderson

Politician and presidential candidate
Born
February 15th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 95 years old

Born in 1922, a Swedish-American lawyer and politician served as a U.S. Representative from Illinois. Initially a Republican, shifted to an independent candidate during the 1980 presidential election, running on a platform focused on social justice, economic reform, and environmental protection. Played a significant role in advocating for governmental reform and worked on various legislative initiatives during time in Congress.

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Roger Grenier

French journalist and author
Born
September 19th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 98 years old

A journalist and author, contributions spanned literature and journalism. Worked for noted publications including 'Le Figaro' and 'Le Monde'. Published numerous literary works that explored themes of memory and identity. His writing style was marked by clarity and precision, earning respect in both literary and journalistic circles.

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Sabine Oberhauser

Austrian physician and politician
Born
August 30th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 54 years old

Served as an Austrian physician and member of the Social Democratic Party. Held the position of Minister for Health from 2014 to 2017. Engaged in various health policies and reforms during time in office. Contributed to medical and health discussions within the Austrian government.

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Timo Mäkinen

Race car driver and rally champion
Born
March 18th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 79 years old

A Finnish race car driver achieved prominence in the 1960s as a rally driver. Competed successfully in the Monte Carlo Rally, winning the event in 1965. Drove for renowned teams including BMC and Ford, showcasing skills in rallying and circuit racing. Contributed to the development of rallying as a competitive sport, impacting the motorsport community.

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Roger Walkowiak

French Cyclist, 1956 Tour de France Winner
Born
March 2nd, 1927 99 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 90 years old

Competed as a professional cyclist during the mid-20th century. Achieved prominence in the cycling world by winning the 1956 Tour de France. Contributed to the sport through participation in various races post-Tour victory and continued involvement in cycling events. Alongside a successful cycling career, worked as an economist.

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Ludmila Belousova

Soviet figure skater and Olympic champion
Born
November 22nd, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1935, this Soviet figure skater achieved prominence in the sport during the 1960s. Partnered with her husband, the skater won the gold medal in ice dancing at the 1964 Winter Olympics in Innsbruck. The duo also secured multiple European and World Championship titles, contributing to the legacy of figure skating in the Soviet Union. After retirement from competitive skating, the skater transitioned into coaching and had a lasting influence on the sport, developing future generations of skaters. The contributions to figure skating are recognized and celebrated in Russia and beyond.

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Alessandro Alessandroni

Italian musician and composer for film
Born
March 18th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 92 years old

An Italian musician and composer focused on film scores, contributed significantly to the genre of Spaghetti Westerns. Collaborated with composers such as Ennio Morricone, providing whistling and guitar work for iconic soundtracks. Also known for creating the score for the film 'A Fistful of Dollars', which helped define the musical style of Western films during the 1960s.

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William Henry Keeler

American cardinal and church leader
Born
March 4th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 86 years old

Served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church and held several prominent roles within the Church. Appointed as the Archbishop of Baltimore, played a key role in the administration and direction of the Archdiocese. Participated in significant ecclesiastical matters and contributed to the advancement of the Catholic faith within the community. Involved in dialogue and connections with other religious and community leaders.

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