What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Roger Walkowiak

French Cyclist, 1956 Tour de France Winner
Born
March 2nd, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2017 8 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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Alessandro Alessandroni

Italian musician and composer for film
Born
March 18th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2017 8 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 94 years ago
Died
2017 8 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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Violet Brown

Jamaican supercentenarian, oldest Jamaican
Born
March 10th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 117 years old

Born in Jamaica in 1900, this individual became the oldest verified living person in the world, holding the title of supercentenarian. Lived through significant historical events, including World War I and II, the Jamaican independence movement, and advancements in technology and society over the century. Resided in the parish of St. Elizabeth, contributing to the rich tapestry of Jamaican culture and history. Passed away in 2017 at the age of 117 years and 138 days.

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František Rajtoral

Czech footballer and defender
Born
March 12th, 1986 39 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 31 years old

Born in 1986, a prominent Czech footballer played primarily as a right-back. Started professional career with FC Zlín, then joined Slovan Liberec, contributing to their success in the Czech First League. Later, moved to the Polish league, playing for Górnik Zabrze. In 2015, transferred to Viktoria Plzeň, where played a crucial role in the team’s victories, including the Czech Cup and the Czech Supercup. Represented the Czech Republic at various youth levels, culminating in senior international appearances.

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Glenne Headly

American actress in film and television
Born
March 13th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1955, an American actress gained recognition for roles in stage, film, and television. Appeared in the film 'Dirty Rotten Scoundrels' alongside Steve Martin and Michael Caine, showcasing skill in comedy. Starred in 'Mr. Holland's Opus' as the wife of Richard Dreyfuss's character, contributing to the film's emotional depth. Worked extensively in television, including roles in series such as 'The Night Of' and 'ER', demonstrating versatility across genres. Received accolades for stage performances, including an Emmy Award nomination for a television movie.

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Dennis Banks

American author and activist
Born
April 12th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 80 years old

An author and activist focused on Indigenous rights and culture. Co-founded the American Indian Movement (AIM) in 1968, advocating for the rights of Native Americans. Participated in various protests, including the occupation of Alcatraz Island in 1969 and the Wounded Knee incident in 1973. Authored several books discussing Indigenous issues and history, contributing to the visibility of Native American culture.

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Attilio Nicora

Italian Cardinal and Vatican Official
Born
March 16th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 80 years old

Ordained as a priest in 1960, served in various roles within the Roman Catholic Church. Played a significant role in the Vatican's financial operations as president of the Financial Information Authority. Served as Bishop of Verona from 1991 to 2002, contributing to the Church's governance in Italy. Appointed as a cardinal in 2001, representing the Catholic Church in various national and international forums, particularly focusing on issues related to finance and management within the Church.

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Igor Volk

Ukrainian-Russian astronaut and pilot
Born
April 12th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1937, this individual served as a colonel in the Soviet Air Force and became a test pilot and astronaut. Participation in the Soviet space program led to a flight aboard the Soyuz 27 mission in 1978. This flight contributed to the continued operations of the Salyut 7 space station. Extensive experience in flying various aircraft complemented contributions to aerospace technology. After retiring from military service, continued to engage in aviation and aerospace education.

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