What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Gene McDaniels

Singer-songwriter and producer
Born
February 12th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent figure in the music industry, this artist gained recognition in the early 1960s. Achievements include writing and producing hit songs that topped charts. The artist's soulful voice and engaging songwriting style attracted a dedicated following. Contributions to the genre have been influential, blending elements of jazz and pop in recordings. Throughout the career, multiple albums were released, achieving commercial success and critical acclaim.

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Patrick Leigh Fermor

English author and wartime soldier
Born
February 11th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 96 years old

Born in 1915, a soldier and author contributed significantly to literary travelogues. Joined the British Army during World War II and became involved in clandestine operations in Crete. After the war, focused on writing, producing acclaimed works exploring the landscapes and cultures of Europe. Leveraged personal experiences to inform narratives detailing journeys through remote regions. Authored 'A Time of Gifts' and 'Between the Woods and the Water', which vividly recount travels across Europe.

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Debbie Friedman

Singer-songwriter of Jewish melodies
Born
February 23rd, 1951 74 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent singer-songwriter, this individual contributed significantly to contemporary Jewish music. Starting in the 1970s, created and popularized a repertoire of original melodies that became integral to Jewish worship and education. Works often featured themes of spirituality and community, resonating within synagogues across the United States and beyond. Released numerous albums, including 'Sing Unto God' and 'The Gift of Music,' solidifying a prominent place in the genre. Engaged in educational initiatives, training future generations in the tradition of Jewish song.

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Walt Hazzard

Basketball player and coach, NCAA champion
Born
April 15th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent basketball player and coach, made significant contributions to the sport in both capacities. Played college basketball at UCLA under coach John Wooden, contributing to the team's success during the 1960s. Won an NCAA championship in 1964. After a successful collegiate career, transitioned to professional basketball, playing for teams including the Philadelphia 76ers and the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. Later took on coaching roles, impacting younger generations of players through various positions. Hazzard was respected for his basketball intelligence and leadership on and off the court.

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Richard Winters

American soldier and World War II leader
Born
January 21st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 93 years old

Served as a commander in the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment during World War II. Played a crucial role in the Normandy landings and the liberation of Europe. Led the company in significant battles including Bastogne and Arnhem. After the war, contributed to various veteran affairs and wrote a memoir detailing his experiences during the war. The story of his leadership and experiences has been recognized in popular culture, including the series 'Band of Brothers'.

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Alberto de Mendoza

Argentine actor in film and television
Born
January 21st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 88 years old

Born in Argentina, a prominent actor developed a successful career in film and television beginning in the 1940s. Gained recognition for performances in various films, particularly in the genre of drama and horror. Starred in significant Argentine films such as 'Los Olvidados' and 'El Rayo.' Appeared in numerous telenovelas, becoming a familiar face to television audiences. Worked extensively in theater and received acclaim for live performances. Received awards for contributions to the arts.

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Leonora Carrington

Painter and author of surreal art
Born
April 6th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 94 years old

Born in 1917, a notable English-Mexican painter and author, contributed significantly to the surrealist movement. Engaged with visions and mythology, produced paintings that depicted whimsical and fantastical worlds. Gained recognition through works such as 'The Lovers' and 'The House Opposite'. Later in life, settled in Mexico, becoming part of the local artistic community and influencing generations of artists.

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Peter Frelinghuysen Jr.

American politician and military officer
Born
January 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 95 years old

Served as a U.S. Congressman representing New Jersey from 1953 to 1974. Held the position of chairman of the House Committee on Science and Astronautics. Participated in World War II as a U.S. Army officer, achieving the rank of lieutenant. Engaged in local politics prior to congressional service, influencing regional policies.

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Zyzz

Bodybuilder and internet personality
Born
March 24th, 1989 35 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 22 years old

A Russian-Australian bodybuilder and internet personality, gained popularity through social media and fitness forums. Emphasized an aesthetic approach to bodybuilding, promoting a lifestyle of fitness and positivity. Influenced many in the fitness community with motivational content and workout advice. Established a significant presence on platforms like YouTube and Instagram. His untimely death in 2011 led to an enduring legacy in the fitness culture.

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