What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Norman Foster Ramsey Jr.

Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics recipient
Born
August 27th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 96 years old

Contributions to the field of physics included work on atomic beams and maser technology. Served as a professor at Harvard University, influencing generations of physicists. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1989 for contributions to the development of methods to use atomic fields to measure frequency, which became essential in atomic clocks.

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J. Ernest Wilkins Jr.

Nuclear scientist and engineer
Born
November 27th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1923, contributed to the Manhattan Project during World War II. Earning a PhD in nuclear engineering, focused research on reactor design and radiation shielding in the 1950s. Served as an educator at several esteemed institutions, emphasizing the importance of mathematical applications in engineering. Actively involved in promoting science and technology, particularly among underrepresented groups in the field. Received recognition for efforts in nuclear safety and mathematical modeling.

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Charles H. Percy

American politician and government official
Born
September 27th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 92 years old

Served as a United States Senator from Illinois from 1967 to 1985. Held the position of chairman for the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Actively participated in the debates surrounding major legislation during the 1970s and 1980s, contributing to the development of significant laws in areas including telecommunications and transportation. Prior to his senatorial career, was the president and CEO of a successful manufacturing company, enhancing expertise in business and governance.

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Arthur Laurents

American playwright, director, screenwriter
Born
July 14th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent playwright and screenwriter, contributed significantly to American theater and film. Best recognized for writing the book for the musical 'West Side Story' and the play 'See You Next Tuesday'. His works often featured complex characters and intricate storytelling. Directed productions on Broadway and received acclaim for revivals and adaptations. Also worked in television, creating and writing scripts for series that garnered critical praise. Received multiple awards including Tony Awards and a Drama Desk Award for contributions to theater.

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Keith Holman

Rugby league player and coach
Born
September 11th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 84 years old

Played professional rugby league in Australia for teams such as the Balmain Tigers and later transitioned into coaching. Made significant contributions to the sport by coaching various teams, including the Balmain Tigers and the Australian national team. Achieved notable success in the NSWRL and represented Australia in international competitions.

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Anne Sharp

Soprano and actress in opera and film
Born
October 24th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 95 years old

A Scottish soprano and actress, gained recognition for performances in both opera and film. Engaged in the performing arts from an early age, demonstrated exceptional vocal talent and stage presence. Acted in a production of "The Merry Widow" and participated in numerous operatic presentations throughout her career. Contributed to radio and recordings, showcasing versatility as a performer. Continued to influence the arts community with performances that blended singing and acting.

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Dennis Ritchie

Computer Scientist, created C language
Born
September 9th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 70 years old

Contributed significantly to computer science by creating the C programming language, a foundational language for modern software development. Co-developed the Unix operating system, which has influenced many others and led to the development of various programming innovations. Worked at Bell Labs, collaborating with other prominent scientists in the field. Authored several influential texts and guides on computer programming.

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Loriot

German humorist, actor, and director
Born
November 12th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 88 years old

This individual contributed significantly to German comedy through television and film. Created renowned characters in sketch shows that reflected social norms and the absurdities of everyday life. Directed and starred in numerous popular comedy productions, gaining a reputation for sharp wit and humor. Works often satirized familiar situations, leading to a loyal following and lasting influence on German humor.

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Ilmar Kullam

Estonian basketball player and coach
Born
June 16th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 89 years old

Born in Estonia, played professional basketball primarily for the Estonian national team. Participated in the European Basketball Championship, showcasing skills on an international level. Transitioned into coaching after retiring from playing, contributing to the development of basketball in Estonia through mentorship and training. Helped guide various teams at different levels, impacting the sport's growth in the region.

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