Hard to Say Goodbye - 2025 Trivia Quiz

Date of passing: January 2, 2025
Cause of death: Pneumonia

Ágnes Keleti, a distinguished gymnast and Holocaust survivor, passed away on January 2, 2025, in Budapest at the age of 103. At the time of her death, she was the oldest living Olympic gold medallist. Born on January 9, 1921, in Budapest, Hungary, she managed to lead an eventful life, all this before the age of 25. She began her gymnastics training at the age of four and became the Hungarian National Champion by 16. Her early career was interrupted by World War II and anti-Jewish laws that led to her expulsion from her gymnastics club in 1941. To survive the Holocaust, Keleti assumed a false identity and worked as a maid in the Hungarian countryside, while her mother and sister were saved using Swiss protection papers issued by diplomat Carl Lutz. Tragically, her father and other relatives were murdered in Auschwitz at the hands of the Nazis.

After the war, Keleti resumed her gymnastics career. She made her Olympic debut at the 1952 Helsinki Games at the now-unthinkable age of 31, winning four medals, including a gold in the floor exercise. Four years later at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, she secured an incredible six medals, with golds in the floor, uneven bars, balance beam, and team portable apparatus events, making her the most successful athlete at those Games.

Following the Soviet invasion of Hungary in 1956, Keleti sought asylum in Australia and soon emigrated to Israel in 1957. In Israel, she contributed significantly to national gymnastics, a relatively unpracticed discipline at the time, working as a coach and physical education instructor. She had a tenure at Tel Aviv University and the Wingate Institute for Sports in Netanya and mentored many athletes and coaches. Keleti's remarkable life and achievements have been recognized over the years through numerous honours, including induction into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame in 2002 and receiving the Israel Prize in 2017 for her contributions to sports.

Ágnes, your life was a symphony of resilience and brilliance. You faced unimaginable horrors, yet you rose, not only to survive but to inspire. As the oldest Olympic medalist, you proved that strength of spirit has no age. Your story will forever remind us of hope, perseverance, and triumph. Rest in peace as a true champion.

Some other notable people who passed away in January 2025 include: British politician Sally Oppenheim-Barnes, Irish boxer John Cooney, Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu, American singer Peter Yarrow, and French director Jeannot Szwarc.

Date of passing: February 24, 2025
Cause of death: Complications due to ALS

Roberta Flack, a masterful voice and pianist, passed away peacefully in Manhattan at the age of 88. Originally from North Carolina, USA, she always loved music and began her journey as a music teacher in Washington DC, shortly after graduating from Howard University. She attended the historically Black university on a full scholarship which she earned at the young age of 15. Her musical breakthrough came with hits like "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" and "Killing Me Softly With His Song", two hits that earned her consecutive Grammys in 1973 and 1974, a first in history. As a classically trained pianist, she was able to fuse genres like jazz, soul, folk, and pop with remarkable intimacy and depth. Her artistry left an enduring influence on artists from Whitney Houston to Lady Gaga.

Roberta Flack was diagnosed with ALS in 2022. She retired but continued inspiring through her music and advocacy work. Sadly, she passed away due to complications from the disease, but surrounded by her friends and loved ones. Her memorial in March featured stirring tributes by Lauryn Hill, Stevie Wonder, and others.

Roberta, your soaring voice touched our mortal souls and your words gave strength to our hearts. With each note, you told truths we all felt but could not find the words to say. You sang with grace, power, and tenderness, and in doing so, you changed the sound of love itself. You gave us beauty in every phrase, and your songs will echo for generations.

Some other notable people who passed away in February 2025 include: American actor Gene Hackman, British founder of Slimming World, Margaret Miles-Bramwell, former German president Horst Köhler, and Aga Khan IV, the leader of the Ismaili Muslims.

Date of passing: March 21, 2025
Cause of death: None given, he was 76

George Foreman, the legendary two-time heavyweight boxing champion, Olympic gold medalist, ordained minister, and entrepreneur, passed away on March 21, 2025, at the age of 76. Officially, his family announced his death with profound sorrow, stating he departed peacefully surrounded by loved ones. His rags-to-riches story is a prime example of the American Dream.

George Foreman was born in Marshall, Texas, USA, and rose from a troubled youth to become one of the most formidable figures in boxing history. He first gained international acclaim by winning a gold medal at the 1968 Olympics. In 1973, he secured the undisputed heavyweight title by defeating Joe Frazier. Perhaps his most well-known fight was the "Rumble in the Jungle" in 1974. Held in Kinshasa, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo), Foreman faced off agains Muhammad Ali and suffered his first professional loss. Foreman was knocked out in the 8th round. Though Foreman retired in 1977, he made a remarkable and quite unprecedented comeback in 1987. He reclaimed the heavyweight title in 1994 at the age of 45 by defeating Michael Moorer, becoming the oldest fighter ever to win the title.

Another of Foreman's achievements is the George Foreman grill, a remarkable feat of entrepreneurship. Unpretentuously titled the George Foreman Lean Mean Fat-Reducing Grilling Machine, it was introduced in 1994 and has sold over 100 million grills in its first thirty years. From its profits, Foreman had earned hundreds of millions of dollars. The catchphrases "It's a knockout!" and "It's so good I put my name on it!" became synonymous with the product and endeared George to the masses. Beyond the ring and the business, George Foreman was a preacher and a father. Interestingly, many of his twelve children also share his name.

George, our world mourns the loss of a man whose impact transcended sports. Your legacy lives on through remarkable achievements in boxing, entrepreneurial success, and commitment to faith and family. You were a knockout and you will be sorely missed.

Some other notable people who passed away in March 2025 include: American actor Richard Chamberlain, double agent Oleg Gordievsky, Australian tennis player Fred Stolle, and American author and activist Kitty Dukakis.

Date of passing: April 1, 2025
Cause of death: Pneumonia

Val Edward Kilmer was born in Los Angeles, USA, and emerged as a Juilliard-trained actor with a stage background. He rose to cinematic fame with breakout roles in "Top Secret!" and "Real Genius" and then became an icon as Lt. Tom 'Iceman' Kazansky in the "Top Gun" movies. He was able to captive his audiences as Jim Morrison in "The Doors", Doc Holliday in "Tombstone", and as (one of the worst) Batman in "Batman Forever". But beyond his status as an actor, he was also a cancer survivor. When he was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014, Kilmer endured radiation, chemotherapy, and a tracheostomy that profoundly affected his voice, but managed to beat the disease. He chronicled his struggles in his memoir and the 2021 documentary "Val". When he reprised the role of Iceman in "Top Gun: Maverick", his voice was digitally altered to make it sound more like his former self.

The battle with cancer compromised Kilmer's immune system severely, and he was infected by pneumonia, a disease which ultimately killed him. He left behind two children and a large legacy of artistry. He, himself, summed up his legacy best: "I see myself as a sensitive, intelligent human being, but with the soul of a clown".

Val, you brought fire and soul to every role that you were handed. You made us laugh, ache, and believe. Even when cancer stole your voice, your spirit roared louder than ever. Through your art, poetry, and grace, millions were touched. You lived with fierce intensity and unflinching honesty. Rest now, Val. You were, and always will be, unforgettable.

Some other notable people who passed away in April 2025 include: Chinese ballet dancer George Lee, Peruvian writer Mario Vargas Llosa, former Malaysian president Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, and Argentine-born Pope Francis.

Date of passing: May 20, 2025
Cause of death: Natural causes at the age of 87

Giovanni "Nino" Benvenuti was one of Italy's most beloved and prestigious boxing heroes. He captured gold in the welterweight division at the 1960 Rome Olympics and went on to earn the prestigious Val Barker Trophy for best boxer at those Games. When he turned professional in 1961, he amassed an impressive 82‑7‑1 record with 35 KOs claiming undisputed world titles in both the super‑welterweight (1965-66) and middleweight classes (1967, 1968-70). He was perhaps best-known in the States for his three bouts with Emile Griffith in Madison Square Gardens. After his time in the ring, Benvenuti became a successful actor, businessman, TV pundit, and sports official. He helped former rivals like Griffith and Monzón get better and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1992.

Nino, you were able to light up the ring with grace and courage, capturing titles with elegance and fire. Your battles thrilled millions, your friendship honoured even your rivals, and your legacy lives on in every fighter who dares to dream. Go get a KO in the ring in the sky.

Some other notable people who passed away in May 2025 include: Lebanese impresario Pierre Audi, American baseball player Chet Lemon, British countess and drug reformer Amanda Feilding, and American actress Loretta Swit.

Date of passing: June 4, 2025
Cause of death: Lymphoma and leukemia

Joseph Jean-Pierre Marc Garneau was a Canadian trailblazer: a naval officer, engineer, astronaut, public servant, and politician. Born in Québec City, Quebéc, Garneau became a national icon when he became the first Canadian in space, flying aboard NASA's Challenger Space Shuttle in 1984. A second and third space flight soon followed, logging him a month travelling in space. A naval engineer by training, he later served as president of the Canadian Space Agency from 2001 to 2005, where he helped shape Canada's role in international space exploration. Using his iconic status, he transitioned into politics, serving as a Liberal Member of Parliament until his retirement in 2023. He held key ministerial portfolios under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, including Minister of Transport and briefly Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Garneau was widely respected for his intellect, humility, and unwavering commitment to public service. He died in Montreal after a brief illness related to lymphoma and leukemia. Tributes poured in from across Canada's political and scientific communities, with many remembering him not only as a trailblazing astronaut but as a devoted leader who brought the perspective of space down to Earth in service of his country.

Marc, you showed us how high a Canadian could soar, from beyond Earth's atmosphere and into the stars. Yet you remained grounded in service, leading with humility, wisdom, and strength. From space to Parliament, you inspired a nation not just with your achievements, but with your integrity. May your legacy shine brighter than the stars you sought to explore.

Some other notable people who passed away in June 2025 include: American singer Brian Wilson, Argentine composer and pianist "Lalo" Schifrin, Japanese baseball player Shigeo Nagashima, and French journalist Philippe Labro.

Date of passing: July 3, 2025
Cause of death: Car accident

Diogo José Teixeira da Silva, born 4 December 1996 in Porto, Portugal, died in a tragic car accident in Zamora province, Spain, on 3 July 2025, along with his younger brother André Silva. He was only 28 years old. Jota was a dynamic forward and winger well‑known for his pace, finishing, and team ethic. His professional journey included stints at Paços de Ferreira, Atlético Madrid, Porto, and Wolverhampton Wanderers, before joining Liverpool in September 2020.

During his five seasons at Liverpool, he made around 180 appearances, scored 65 goals, and helped lead the team to the Premier League title in 2024-25, as well as FA Cup and League Cup triumphs. He also played internationally for Portugal. With them, he earned 49 caps and scored 14 goals, contributing to their UEFA Nations League victories in 2019 and again in 2025.

The car crash occurred around 00:30 local time on the A‑52 motorway near Cernadilla in Spain. The green Lamborghini Huracan that Diogo Jota and his brother were in suffered a tire blowout while overtaking a slower car. Apparently, Jota veered off the road, crashed, and then the car caught fire. Both perished at the scene. Sadly, Jota had married long‑time partner Rute Cardoso on 22 June 2025, just eleven days before the tragedy. The couple had three young children. The football club Liverpool FC was deeply shocked. They described the loss as "unimaginable", and then offered full support to Jota's wife and children while requesting privacy for the grieving process. Team manager Arne Slot and club leadership publicly remembered Jota as a deeply loved teammate and family figure, while Liverpool made the unprecedented decision to retire his number 20 jersey across all levels in his honour. Football as a whole paid tribute: moments of silence were held at UEFA Women's Euro games, FIFA matches, and other events. Teams like Porto, Bayern Munich, and players like Bruno Fernandes, Cristiano Ronaldo, Darwin Núñez, and many others shared heartfelt condolences.

Diogo, your feet danced with fire, and your heart beat for your family, your club, and your country. You gave us joy with every goal, every sprint, every selfless pass. You rose to the world stage with humility and hunger for the game, and we marvelled at your grace. Just days after celebrating love and life, you were taken far too soon. May your spirit be ever in the starting eleven wherever you are playing now.

Some other notable people who passed away in July 2025 include: British rock star Ozzy Osbourne, Austrian daredevil Felix Baumgartner, American wrestler Hulk Hogan (Terry Bollea), American singer Connie Francis, and Czech soprano Helena Tattermuschová.

Date of passing: August 16, 2025
Cause of death: Natural causes

Robert Baddeley Simpson, better known as Bob, or even Simmo, was a legend in the Australian cricket circuit. From a young age as an athlete, Simpson was a standout right-handed batsman, a skilled leg-spin bowler, and one of Australia's most respected slip fielders. Over his career, he played in 62 Test matches having his career span from 1957 and 1978. In that time, he scored 4,869 runs at an average of 46.81, and this included ten centuries. His most standout performance was when he scored 311 against England in 1964, becoming one of the few Australians to hit a triple century.

Simpson's leadership led him to captain Australia across two separate stints, even returning from retirement at age 41 to steer the national side. After his playing career was finally over, Simpson became Australia's first full-time head coach and was widely credited with transforming the team into a dominant force in world cricket. Under his guidance, Australia won the 1987 Cricket World Cup, regained the Ashes in England in 1989, and achieved a landmark series victory over the previously dominant West Indies in 1995. For his achievements, Simpson was honoured as a Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1965) and inducted into both the Sport Australia Hall of Fame and the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame.

Simmo, you shaped Australian cricket with steel, wisdom, and uncompromising standards. In the oval in the sky, I'm sure you're swinging away. Rest in peace.

Some other notable people who passed away in August 2025 include: British tennis player Angela Mortimer, American television actor and theatre executive Jerry Adler, American astronaut (of Apollo 13 fame) Jim Lovell, Stella Rimington, the first female head of MI5, and French-American heiress and arts patron Christophe de Menil.

Date of passing: September 4, 2025
Cause of death: Natural causes

Giorgio Armani was a well-known, iconic, Italian fashion designer and creative force whose name became synonymous with elegance, simplicity, and enduring style. He passed away peacefully at home in Milan after a long and influential career in fashion. Apparently, he had been working to his very last days, and he passed away surrounded by friends and family. He initially studied medicine before turning to fashion; he worked as a window dresser and menswear buyer in Milan, dipping his toe into the trade that would later define his life. In 1975, with his partner Sergio Galeotti, he founded his own label and quickly became a leading force in luxury. His relaxed, unstructured tailoring and muted palettes revolutionized how men and women dressed. His style was seen as both simple and sophisticated, and it caught on very quickly with the Italian fashion scene. Armani's brand grew into a global luxury empire encompassing accessories, perfumes, cosmetics, home goods, restaurants, and hotels, valued at billions of dollars at the time of his death. Despite his enormous success, he remained personally involved in his work, continuing to shape his vision into clothing and accessories.

Giorgio, riposi in pace. You taught the world that true elegance whispers, never shouts. With clean lines and quiet confidence, you changed how power, beauty, and grace are worn. As you go on to the next world, we here know that you enter it dressed with the same style and sophistication that you lived by.

Some other notable people who passed away in September 2025 include: British royal Katharine, Duchess of Kent, American actor Robert Redford, Swedish singer Tomas Tompa Lindberg, and Canadian hockey goalie legend Ken Dryden.

Date of passing: October 1, 2025
Cause of death: Natural causes

Jane Goodall was a British primatologist, anthropologist and humanitarian. Her life's work transformed our understanding of chimpanzees and our relationship with the natural world. She proved that the definition of humans as the world's sole tool-users may have to be revised through groundbreaking observation. His research began in 1960 at Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania. There, she spent decades living among wild chimpanzees, gaining their trust so that she could observe them up close. Her astute observations challenged long-held scientific assumptions and reshaped ethology and anthropology. She saw that chimpanzees use tools and exhibit complex social behaviours, much like humans do - something that her colleagues had originally ridiculed. Her findings revealed the rich emotional lives and distinct personalities in chimpanzees, and made the link from them to humans that much closer.

As a humanitarian, in 1977, she founded the Jane Goodall Institute. This place combined conservation, scientific research, and community-centered programs. One of her most enduring initiatives was Roots & Shoots, a youth environmental and humanitarian program in dozens of countries, which inspires young people to take meaningful local action for the planet. For her efforts, she was appointed a United Nations Messenger of Peace, and in 2025, she was given the Presidential Medal of Freedom in the United States.

Jane, you taught us to look closer, to listen longer, and to care more deeply. Your quote that "change happens by listening and then starting a dialogue with the people who are doing something you don't believe is right" is a poignant one in today's increasingly-intolerant world. Even though you're gone, we will still continue to do your work diligently.

Some other notable people who passed away in October 2025 include: American musician Sam Rivers, French cyclist Charlie Coste, Jamaican actress Yvonne Brewster, and American actress Diane Keaton.

Date of passing: November 17, 2025
Cause of death: Lung and liver cancer

Rebecca Heineman was a pioneering American video game designer, programmer, and trailblazer whose work shaped the early days of interactive entertainment. She died at the young age of 62 after a brief battle with adenocarcinoma, a form of cancer, in Rockwall, Texas. When she was only 17, Rebecca won the national Space Invaders championship in New York. THis made her the first US champion and showcased her skill of playing video games and furthered her love for the industry. Soon after, she founded the video game company Interplay Productions, in 1983, where she conceptualized, designed, and programmed many games. "The Bard's Tale III: Thief of Fate", "Dragon War", and "Wasteland" were some of her memorable games. SHe also contributed to the well-known "Wolfenstein 3D" and to "Doom", some of the most popular games at that time.

Beyond gameplay, Rebecca was credited on 67 games. She started other companies including Logicware, Contraband Entertainment, and Olde Sküül, the latter of which where she served as CEO until her death. She was known not only for her technical brilliance but for her mentorship and advocacy within the industry. This extended to advocacy of LGBTQ+ inclusion in gaming. She, herself, came out as transgender in the 2000s and became a celebrated figure in the community, culminating in her receiving the Gayming Icon Award in 2025 for her enduring impact.

Rebecca, you leave our world having created for us so many others. You inspired play, exploration, and imagination, while captivating us with your brilliance. Throught your advocacy, you opened doors for those who did not have much of a voice. We all hope you've found the ultimate cheat code.

Some other notable people who passed away in November 2025 include: German actresses the Kessler twins, Australian car racer Allan Moffat, American golfer Fuzzy Zoeller, and Czech playwright Tom Stoppard.

Date of passing: December 14, 2025
Cause of death: Murder

Rob Reiner was an acclaimed American actor, filmmaker, and director, whose work left an indelible mark on cinema and film culture. He first rose to prominence as Michael "Meathead" Stivic on the sitcom "All in the Family". His relatable performance earned him multiple Emmy Awards for his performance. Later, as a director, Reiner crafted beloved and influential films in a variety of genres, like comedy, drama, and romance. You tell me if you can ever forget films like "Misery, "This Is Spinal Tap", "The Princess Bride", "When Harry Met Sally...", "A Few Good Men", or "Stand By Me". If you haven't seen these, these are just a few of the amazing body of work that Reiner created. His filmography earned him widespread admiration for his versatility and insight into human relationships and humour.

Beyond his creative achievements, Reiner was a passionate advocate for social causes. He used his voice and platform to support civil rights, early childhood education, and healthcare initiatives. He also championed progressive political engagement throughout his life. His influence extended beyond film into activism and public discourse. Reiner's life came to a tragic and unexpected end on December 14, 2025, when he and his wife, photographer and producer Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead at their family home in Los Angeles. The Los Angeles Police Department has classified their deaths as a homicide involving sharp-force injuries. The shock across Hollywood and the world of the Reiners' death was palpable, and the grief was real.

Rob, thank you for showing us how much heart a story can hold. You taught us how to laugh, how to love, and how to stand up for what matters. You knew that the truth matters even if we "can't handle the truth". Through stories full of heart, wit, and humanity, you reminded us to be our better selves. "As you wish", Rob.

Some other notable people who passed away in December 2025 include: Bulgarian wrestler Boyan Radev, French model and actress Brigitte Bardot, the New Zealand reporter Peter Arnett, and Canadian architect Frank Gehry.