Many celebrities have left their mark on the world, and some of them passed away on August 5. Here are 19 notable figures who died on this date, each leaving behind a legacy in their respective fields.
19 Celebrities Who Died on August 5
1. Chick Hearn
Date of Death: August 5, 2002
Chick Hearn, born on November 27, 1916, was a legendary American sportscaster best known for his long tenure as the play-by-play announcer for the Los Angeles Lakers. Hearn was the voice of the Lakers for over four decades, becoming synonymous with the team’s success and developing a style of commentary that has influenced countless broadcasters. His colorful phrases and quick wit made him a beloved figure in sports broadcasting.
2. Josh Ryan Evans
Date of Death: August 5, 2002
Josh Ryan Evans, born on January 10, 1982, was an American actor best known for his role as Timmy Lenox on the soap opera “Passions.” Despite his small stature due to achondroplasia, Evans made a big impact in Hollywood with his memorable performances and charismatic presence. He also appeared in movies like “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” where he played the young Grinch.
3. Jim O’Hora
Date of Death: August 5, 2005
Jim O’Hora, born on August 1, 1915, was a respected American football coach who had a significant impact on college football. He spent most of his career at Penn State University, where he served as an assistant coach and defensive coordinator. O’Hora was known for his dedication to the sport and his ability to develop strong defensive strategies.
4. Polina Astakhova
Polina Astakhova
Date of Death: August 5, 2005
Polina Astakhova, born on October 30, 1936, was a Soviet gymnast who achieved great success in the 1950s and 1960s. She competed in three Olympic Games, winning a total of ten medals, including five golds. Astakhova was known for her elegance and grace, earning the nickname “The Russian Birch” due to her beautiful performances.
5. Raul Roco
Date of Death: August 5, 2005
Raul Roco, born on October 26, 1941, was a prominent Filipino politician and lawyer. He served as Secretary of Education and ran for president of the Philippines in 2004. Roco was known for his advocacy for education reform and his efforts to improve the Philippine educational system. His work left a lasting impact on the country’s policies.
6. Roy Scott
Date of Death: August 5, 2008
Roy Scott, born on March 2, 1925, was a British footballer who played as a winger. He spent most of his career at Stoke City, where he became known for his speed and skill on the field. Scott’s contributions to the team helped Stoke City achieve success in the post-war period. After retiring from playing, he remained involved in football as a coach and mentor.
7. Ed Thrasher
Date of Death: August 5, 2006
Ed Thrasher, born on March 7, 1932, was an American art director and photographer known for his iconic album covers. He worked with some of the biggest names in music, including Frank Sinatra, Jimi Hendrix, and The Grateful Dead. Thrasher’s work in the music industry left a significant mark, influencing album art design for generations.
8. Hugo Schiltz
Date of Death: August 5, 2006
Hugo Schiltz, born on October 27, 1927, was a Belgian politician and lawyer. He was a prominent figure in Belgian politics, known for his work in regional autonomy and federalism. Schiltz played a key role in the development of the Belgian federal state and was an advocate for the rights of the Flemish community. His legal and political contributions had a lasting impact on Belgium’s governance.
9. Susan Butcher
Date of Death: August 5, 2006
Susan Butcher, born on December 26, 1954, was an American dog musher and four-time winner of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Butcher’s achievements in the grueling race made her a legend in the sport of dog mushing. She was known for her determination, skill, and deep bond with her dogs. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations of mushers.
10. Florian Pittiș
Florian Pittiș
Date of Death: August 5, 2007
Florian Pittiș, born on October 4, 1943, was a Romanian actor, singer, and director. He was a beloved figure in Romanian culture, known for his work in theater, film, and music. Pittiș was also a voice actor and radio personality, making significant contributions to the arts in Romania. His versatile talent and charismatic personality endeared him to many.
11. Reg Lindsay
Date of Death: August 5, 2008
Reg Lindsay, born on July 7, 1929, was an Australian country music singer and songwriter. He was one of the pioneers of country music in Australia and achieved great success with his recordings and live performances. Lindsay was known for hits like “Armstrong” and “July You’re a Woman.” His contributions to country music earned him numerous awards and accolades.
12. Budd Schulberg
Date of Death: August 5, 2009
Budd Schulberg, born on March 27, 1914, was an American screenwriter, novelist, and sportswriter. He is best known for writing the screenplay for “On the Waterfront,” which won multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Schulberg’s work often explored themes of corruption and redemption, making him a significant figure in American literature and film.
13. Robert Aitken
Date of Death: August 5, 2010
Robert Aitken, born on August 19, 1917, was a Canadian flutist and composer. He was a prominent figure in contemporary classical music, known for his performances and compositions. Aitken was also a dedicated teacher, influencing many young musicians through his work at the University of Toronto and other institutions. His contributions to music were widely recognized and celebrated.
14. Andrzej Lepper
Date of Death: August 5, 2011
Andrzej Lepper, born on June 13, 1954, was a Polish politician and leader of the Samoobrona (Self-Defense) party. He was a controversial figure in Polish politics, known for his outspoken and populist views. Lepper served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture, advocating for farmers’ rights and rural development. His political career was marked by both achievements and controversies.
15. George Duke
George Duke
Date of Death: August 5, 2013
George Duke, born on January 12, 1946, was an American jazz and fusion musician, composer, and producer. He was known for his versatility and innovative approach to music, blending jazz, funk, and R&B. Duke worked with many renowned artists, including Frank Zappa, and released numerous solo albums. His contributions to music were influential and left a lasting legacy in the industry.
16. Arvind Apte
Date of Death: August 5, 2014
Arvind Apte, born on October 24, 1934, was an Indian cricketer who played for the Indian national team in the 1950s. He was a talented batsman and played a crucial role in several matches. Apte’s contributions to Indian cricket were significant during his playing career, and he remained involved in the sport after his retirement.
see also: 21 Famous People Born on August 5 You May Not Know
17. George Cole
Date of Death: August 5, 2015
George Cole, born on April 22, 1925, was a British actor best known for his role as Arthur Daley in the television series “Minder.” Cole’s acting career spanned over seven decades, and he appeared in numerous films and TV shows. His portrayal of the wheeler-dealer Arthur Daley made him a household name in the UK and endeared him to many fans.
18. Doug Insole
Date of Death: August 5, 2017
Doug Insole, born on April 18, 1926, was an English cricketer and administrator. He played for Essex and the England national team, making significant contributions as a batsman. After retiring from playing, Insole served as an administrator and selector, influencing the development of English cricket. His dedication to the sport was widely recognized.
19. Terry Davies
Date of Death: August 5, 2021
Terry Davies, born on November 24, 1933, was a Welsh rugby union player who played as a fullback for the Welsh national team. He was known for his skill and versatility on the field, contributing to Wales’ success in the 1950s and 1960s. Davies was a respected figure in rugby and left a lasting legacy in the sport.
Conclusion
These 19 celebrities, who passed away on August 5, have left an indelible mark on their respective fields. From sports and politics to music and acting, their contributions continue to be remembered and celebrated. Their lives and legacies serve as a reminder of the impact that individuals can have, regardless of the date of their passing.