What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

P. S. Soosaithasan

Sri Lankan politician and accountant
Born
July 24th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 83 years old

Served as a member of the Sri Lankan Parliament representing the Tamil United Liberation Front. Contributed to the discussions and legislative processes impacting the Tamil community in Sri Lanka. Held various positions within the accounting profession, helping to establish standards and practices within the field. Engaged in political activities aimed at advocating for the rights and welfare of Tamils during a period of significant civil strife in the country.

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Irina Ratushinskaya

Russian Poet and Author of 'Gray is the Color'
Born
March 4th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1954, a Russian poet and author gained recognition for literary works that reflected the struggles and resilience in the face of oppression. Imprisoned in the 1980s for her dissident views, her experiences in a Soviet labor camp formed the basis for her writing. 'Gray is the Color' became a significant work, shedding light on the plight of political prisoners. After her release, she continued to write and advocate for human rights, contributing to international awareness of freedom of expression. Ratushinskaya's poetry is characterized by its emotional depth and themes of hope and defiance against injustice.

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Halim El-Dabh

Composer and educator, 'The Son of the Nile'
Born
March 4th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 96 years old

Born in Egypt and later residing in the United States, a composer and educator made significant contributions to contemporary music. Studied at institutions such as the University of Cairo and Columbia University. Developed a unique style that blended traditional Egyptian music with modern compositions. Pioneered the use of electronic music in the 20th century, which distinguished his works in both concert and educational contexts. Taught at various institutions, sharing insights into music theory and composition.

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Tara Palmer-Tomkinson

Model and author with notable television roles
Born
December 23rd, 1971 53 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 46 years old

An English model, actress, and author, this individual gained prominence in the 1990s through a variety of media appearances. She became known for her role in the reality television series 'I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!' and her contributions to media outlets as a columnist. The fashion industry recognized her influence as a model, particularly during the height of her career, and she authored works that reflected her experiences and perspectives on celebrity culture. Personal struggles, including health challenges, also marked her later years, contributing to public interest in her life.

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Lou Duva

Boxing trainer and manager, Hall of Fame
Born
May 28th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 95 years old

Contributed significantly to the sport of boxing as a trainer and manager. Worked with numerous champions throughout a long career, leading several to victory in major bouts. Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1998 for achievements and success in the boxing world. Established a reputation for developing talent and preparing fighters for high-stakes matchups.

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Edward du Cann

Naval officer and British politician
Born
May 28th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 93 years old

A distinguished English naval officer and politician, contributed significantly to British politics. Served as a Member of Parliament for 25 years, representing the West Country area. Held important positions within the Conservative Party, including Party Vice-Chairman. In the naval service, achieved the rank of Rear Admiral and was involved in several significant operations during his career. His work in Parliament included focus on issues pertaining to defense and maritime policy.

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Roger Grenier

French journalist and author
Born
September 19th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2017 8 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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Ludmila Belousova

Soviet figure skater and Olympic champion
Born
November 22nd, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2017 8 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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Ludvig Faddeev

Mathematician, physicist, Faddeev equations
Born
March 23rd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed extensively to theoretical physics and mathematics. Developed the Faddeev equations, crucial for understanding quantum field theory and many-body problems. Worked on the algebraic approach to quantum theory and made significant advancements in the understanding of the quantum inverse scattering method. Served as a professor at the St. Petersburg State University, influencing many students and researchers in the field.

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