What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Hywel Bennett

Welsh actor in television and film
Born
April 8th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 73 years old

Acted in a range of television series and films throughout a career spanning several decades. Gained recognition for performances in 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney' and 'Just Good Friends'. Worked extensively in UK television, including roles in 'The Man Who Knew Too Much' and 'A Mind to Kill'. Played various characters that showcased versatility across genres.

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Danielle Darrieux

French actress and singer
Born
May 1st, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 100 years old

Born in France, a prominent film and stage actress and singer. Career commenced in the 1930s, with roles in French cinema that spanned several decades. Starred in notable films such as 'La Ronde' and 'Madame de...' which showcased remarkable talent and versatility. Active during both World Wars, continued to perform well into the 21st century, demonstrating longevity in the entertainment industry.

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Dilia Díaz Cisneros

Venezuelan teacher and educator
Born
June 1st, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 92 years old

Born in Venezuela in 1925, a dedicated teacher contributed significantly to education in the country. Focused on improving teaching methods and advocating for educational reform, emphasized the importance of quality education for all children. Involved in various educational initiatives and published works aimed at enhancing literacy and teaching skills. Played a pivotal role in shaping educational policies within Venezuela, influencing generations of teachers and students. Her efforts helped to promote access to education in underserved communities.

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Colin Meads

Rugby player, All Blacks coach
Born
June 3rd, 1936 88 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 81 years old

An accomplished rugby player and coach, this individual made significant contributions to the sport in New Zealand. Debuting for the national team in 1957, he became a pivotal member of the All Blacks, participating in 55 test matches until 1971. Distinguished as a lock, this athlete was celebrated for both skill and leadership on the field. Post-retirement, he transitioned to coaching, influencing future generations of players. Recognition came in the form of multiple awards, including induction into the World Rugby Hall of Fame and receiving the New Zealand Order of Merit.

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Viktor Gorbatko

Russian cosmonaut and pilot
Born
December 3rd, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 83 years old

A general, pilot, and cosmonaut, this individual contributed significantly to Soviet space exploration. Participated in multiple spaceflights, with notable missions including Soyuz 7 and Soyuz 23. Achieved the rank of Major General in the Soviet Air Force and served in various capacities within the Soviet space program. His spaceflight experiences encompassed important scientific experiments and international collaboration. In addition to military and space service, he engaged in educational endeavors, sharing knowledge about space travel and piloting.

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Cathleen Synge Morawetz

Canadian mathematician and researcher
Born
May 5th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 94 years old

Born in 1923, a prominent mathematician focused on applied mathematics. Contributed extensively to the field of partial differential equations, particularly in mathematical biology and fluid dynamics. Held a professorship at the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences, influencing many students and researchers. The first woman to achieve the rank of distinguished professor at New York University. Actively engaged in promoting mathematics through various academic initiatives and collaborations.

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J.P. Donleavy

Novelist, playwright, author of 'The Ginger Man'
Born
April 23rd, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 91 years old

A novelist and playwright with roots in both American and Irish culture, contributed significantly to literature through works characterized by irreverent humor and exploration of human nature. Achieved recognition primarily for 'The Ginger Man', a controversial novel that faced initial publication challenges due to its content but later became a significant literary work. The figure's writing style combined rich prose with comedic elements, influencing subsequent generations of writers. Pursued the craft of playwrighting, creating works that reflect similar themes of absurdity and social commentary.

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