They came from all walks of life, and all left an indelible mark on Chicago and the world. Here is a look at 25 notable Chicagoans who passed away last year.

Chicago News Sports Events Culture

The Chicago sports culture is no doubt a product of the city’s renaissance. Several notable awards and accolades are bestowed upon the city for its sports related achievements, including a spot on the world’s most competitive hockey league. Moreover, the city’s athletic community has gotten a boost with the opening of the newest ice hockey arena, Chicago Blackhawks Arena.

Sports can be a major boon to an urban center’s economy. In 2010, New York City’s sports and entertainment industries contributed a whopping $340 million to the city’s overall economic output. While that number may seem a little low to a city of its size, it’s worth noting that the sport is only one of the many ways that the city has reinvented itself. Similarly, the city has a long history of hosting major sporting events. Whether it’s a major league baseball or an NBA game, the city is an ideal destination for fans of the sporting genre. Likewise, the city’s etiquette of sportsmanship is evident, both in and out of the rink. It’s easy to see why the city has earned its spot on the list of the most sports fanatical cities in the country.

As for a city with a population of a little over a million, the city’s sports culture is a testament to its residents’ dedication to their favorite teams. There’s certainly no shortage of fans to root for, as you’ll see if you check out the frenzied crowd at a Chicago Cubs or Bears game.