What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Big George

Songwriter and radio host
Born
1957 68 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2011 13 years ago — 54 years old

An English songwriter and producer, contributed significantly to the music industry. Fostered relationships with many artists and was instrumental in the production of various notable recordings. Served as a radio host, sharing insights and music with audiences. Garnered respect within the industry for unique sound and creative vision.

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Seve Ballesteros

Professional golfer and course designer
Born
April 9th, 1957 67 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2011 13 years ago — 54 years old

A prominent figure in professional golf, this individual achieved notable successes on the PGA and European Tours. A brilliant shot-maker, won five major championships including the Masters Tournament in 1980 and 1983. Played a significant role in the rise of European golf, leading the European team to victory in the Ryder Cup multiple times as both a player and captain. After retirement from competitive play, focused on golf course design, creating several renowned courses worldwide.

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Willard Boyle

Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics recipient
Born
August 19th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2011 13 years ago — 86 years old

A Canadian physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of physics. In 1969, invented the charge-coupled device (CCD) alongside George E. Smith, which revolutionized electronic imaging. This technology is widely used in video cameras, digital cameras, and astronomical imaging. The scientific contributions were recognized by the Nobel Prize in Physics awarded in 2009. Boyle worked at Bell Laboratories for many years, and his research focused on the development of light-sensitive devices, solid-state physics, and optical technologies.

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Lionel Rose

Boxer, World Bantamweight Champion
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2011 13 years ago — 63 years old

This Australian boxer achieved significant recognition in the sport of boxing during the 1960s and early 1970s. Rose became the World Bantamweight Champion in 1968, becoming the first Aboriginal Australian to win a world boxing title. His victory in the title match took place in Tokyo, where he defeated the reigning champion. Following this achievement, Rose defended his title multiple times, enhancing his reputation within the boxing community. His contributions to the sport and representation of Aboriginal Australians in boxing have been noteworthy aspects of his career. Rose retired from boxing in 1976.

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Wouter Weylandt

Belgian professional cyclist, Giro d'Italia stage winner
Born
September 27th, 1984 40 years ago
Died
May 9th, 2011 13 years ago — 26 years old

A professional cyclist from Belgium, Weylandt competed primarily in road racing events. He rode for the Quick-Step team and achieved significant success during his career. Weylandt gained recognition by winning the third stage of the Giro d'Italia in 2010, showcasing his sprinting capabilities. Tragically, his life ended after a fatal accident during the Giro d'Italia in 2011. His legacy in cycling is remembered by both fans and competitors.

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Robert Traylor

Basketball Player and NBA Draft Pick
Born
February 1st, 1977 48 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2011 13 years ago — 34 years old

An American basketball player, played college basketball for the University of Michigan. In 1998, selected 6th overall in the NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks. Played professionally in various leagues, including the NBA, where he had stints with the Mavericks and the New Orleans Hornets. Also played internationally, contributing to teams in Spain and other countries. Traylor's college career included helping the Wolverines to a Final Four appearance.

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Derek Boogaard

Ice hockey player, enforcer for the Rangers
Born
June 23rd, 1982 42 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2011 13 years ago — 28 years old

A professional ice hockey player, recognized for a role as an enforcer. Played for the Minnesota Wild and the New York Rangers in the National Hockey League (NHL). Known for physical presence and fighting ability on the ice, contributing to team dynamics. Played junior hockey in the Western Hockey League (WHL) and was selected 202nd overall in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. His career faced challenges including injuries and personal struggles.

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Stephen De Staebler

Sculptor and educator; works in clay
Born
March 24th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2011 13 years ago — 78 years old

An American sculptor and educator contributed significantly to contemporary sculpture. Specialized in clay and bronze, produced numerous large-scale public artworks and exhibited in prominent galleries and museums. Served as a professor at San Francisco State University, influencing generations of art students. Engaged with themes of the human condition and explored the relationship between nature and humanity through sculpture.

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Wallace McCain

Businessman, founder of McCain Foods
Born
April 9th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2011 13 years ago — 81 years old

A Canadian businessman focused on the frozen food industry, achieved prominence through the establishment of McCain Foods in 1957, which grew to become one of the largest producers of frozen French fries and other frozen food products worldwide. The company was instrumental in expanding the market for frozen foods and transformed the global agriculture supply chain. His leadership position helped shape the business landscape in the food industry throughout Canada and beyond.

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