What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Googie Withers

Australian actress, star of 'It Always Rains on Sunday'
Born
March 12th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
July 15th, 2011 13 years ago — 94 years old

Born in India, an actress gained recognition in British cinema and theatre. Significant career began in the 1940s. Notable performances included roles in 'It Always Rains on Sunday' and 'The Ladykillers'. Work spanned several decades, transitioning to television roles and continuing to perform in stage productions until later in life.

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Forrest Blue

American football player, Pro Bowl center
Born
September 7th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2011 13 years ago — 66 years old

A professional American football player played the center position in the National Football League (NFL) primarily for the San Francisco 49ers. Played in the team's Super Bowl IX appearance. Selected to the Pro Bowl in 1970, recognized for exceptional skills on the field. Contributed significantly to the offensive line during his career, playing from 1966 to 1975.

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Lucian Freud

Painter renowned for intense portraits
Born
December 8th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2011 13 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1922, this painter developed a unique style characterized by exploration of the human figure and psychological depth. Training under various artists, he synthesized influences from Expressionism and the British figurative tradition. Freud’s works often depicted close family and friends, utilizing thick, impasto layers of paint to illuminate their emotional states. The artist's most significant acclaim came with various exhibitions, including a prominent showcase at the Tate Gallery in London. Freud's methodologies emphasized long sitting sessions with his subjects, fostering an environment of intimacy. His painting, 'Benefits Supervisor Sleeping,' fetched a notable price at auction, establishing a record for a living artist at the time. Throughout his career, he faced challenges in the art industry but continued to influence contemporary figurative painting until his passing in 2011.

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Cees de Wolf

Dutch footballer and coach
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 2011 13 years ago — 66 years old

A professional footballer played primarily as a defender. Developed a career in the Dutch football leagues and later transitioned into coaching roles. Contributed to various teams during the playing career, including FC Twente. After retiring, focused on coaching and developing young talent in the sport.

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Linda Christian

Actress in classic films and television
Born
November 13th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 2011 13 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Mexico, an actress gained recognition in the 1940s and 1950s. Appeared in films like 'Tarzan and the Mermaids' and 'The Girl from P.A.C.K. 1'. Christian broke barriers as one of the first actresses to star in a major television soap opera, 'The Secret Storm'. Significant contributions to the film industry and early television have been noted throughout her career.

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Amy Winehouse

Singer-songwriter with 'Back to Black'
Born
September 14th, 1983 41 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2011 13 years ago — 27 years old

A British singer-songwriter, rose to prominence in the mid-2000s with a distinctive style that blended various musical genres, including soul, jazz, and R&B. Released critically acclaimed albums, with 'Back to Black' achieving significant commercial success and earning multiple awards. The album featured hits such as 'Rehab' and 'You Know I'm No Good'. Struggled with personal issues that garnered extensive media attention, leading to a complex public persona. Despite challenges, contributed to shaping contemporary music with a unique voice and unparalleled lyrical depth.

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Dan Peek

American singer-songwriter and musician
Born
November 1st, 1950 74 years ago
Died
July 24th, 2011 13 years ago — 60 years old

A singer-songwriter and musician, contributed significantly to the music scene during the 1970s. Formed the folk-rock band America, which achieved considerable success. The band's self-titled debut album featured hit singles that reached the top of the charts. Later pursued a solo career, releasing several albums that showcased a variety of musical styles. In addition to music, engaged in Christian ministry and wrote religious-themed songs. His work in America is characterized by smooth harmonies and memorable melodies.

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David Servan-Schreiber

French physician and neuroscientist
Born
April 21st, 1961 63 years ago
Died
July 24th, 2011 13 years ago — 50 years old

A physician and neuroscientist, contributed significantly to the understanding of the mind-body connection and the impact of psychological factors on health. Authored several books addressing mental health and well-being, highlighting the importance of combining conventional medicine with complementary approaches. The work emphasized the role of lifestyle changes in managing depression and anxiety. Pioneered research in how emotions affect physical health and promoted integrative methods of treatment. His publications reached a wide audience and fostered dialogue about mental health measures and self-care strategies.

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Michael Cacoyannis

Film director of Zorba the Greek
Born
June 11th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2011 13 years ago — 89 years old

Born in Cyprus, a director, producer, and screenwriter gained recognition for contributions to cinema. Started career with theatrical productions, transitioning to film in the 1950s. Achieved international acclaim with the film Zorba the Greek in 1964, which showcased Greek culture and won several awards. Worked on various adaptations of ancient Greek plays, including The Trojan Women and Electra, establishing a reputation for cinematic interpretations of classical literature. Involved in both Greek and international film festivals, promoting artistic collaborations between different cultures.

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