What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Richard Leacock

Film director and producer, documentary cinema
Born
July 18th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 90 years old

A pioneer of documentary cinema, contributed significantly to the development of direct cinema. Worked on influential films that emphasized observational filmmaking. Collaborated with significant figures in the industry, including the production of 'Primary' in 1960, which captured the Wisconsin primary election between John F. Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey. Involved in educational film projects and taught at various institutions, influencing future generations of filmmakers.

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Liviu Ciulei

Romanian actor and director of plays
Born
July 7th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 88 years old

Ciulei was an influential figure in Romanian theater and cinema. He studied at the University of Bucharest, where he later became a prominent teacher. His directorial debut occurred in the 1960s, leading a production of 'Hamlet'. Ciulei also starred in films such as 'The Reenactment' and 'The Last Stop'. His innovative approach to stage directing earned him recognition among peers. He received numerous awards for his contributions to theater and film, receiving accolades at both national and international levels.

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Simona Senoner

Ski Jumper and World Championship medalist
Born
June 13th, 1993 31 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 18 years old

Competed in ski jumping and represented Italy at the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships. Achieved notable performances in international competitions. Specialized in the women's ski jumping events, contributing to the sport's development in Italy.

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George Tooker

American painter; work includes 'The Waiting Room'
Born
August 5th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 91 years old

An American painter, recognized for creating figurative works that often incorporate surreal elements. Tooker's art reflects social concerns and a deep empathy for the human condition. He studied at the National Academy of Design and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. His paintings feature intricate details and rich colors, depicting individuals in contemplative settings. 'The Waiting Room', created in 1950, is one of his signature works, illustrating themes of isolation and connection. Throughout his career, Tooker received various accolades and exhibited widely across the United States and internationally.

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Wiel Coerver

Football manager and player, Coerver Method
Born
December 3rd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 87 years old

A Dutch football player and manager, recognized for developing the Coerver Method, a technique focused on improving individual skills and ball control. Played as a midfielder during the 1940s and 1950s. Transitioned into coaching, where he implemented the Coerver Method to train players and teams. His coaching influenced many football academies and trainers worldwide, emphasizing skill development through structured training sessions. Worked with various clubs and national teams, contributing to the growth of young talent in football.

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Richard Hamilton

Professional basketball player and champion
Born
February 14th, 1978 47 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 33 years old

A professional basketball player made significant contributions in the NBA, primarily during a successful tenure with the Detroit Pistons. Notable for his scoring ability and distinctive mask-wearing style due to facial injuries. Played a pivotal role in leading the Pistons to an NBA Championship in 2004. Also represented the United States in international competitions, contributing to a gold medal in the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

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Gene Colan

Comic book illustrator for Marvel Comics
Born
September 1st, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 85 years old

An illustrator contributed significantly to the comic book industry, particularly for Marvel Comics. Worked on notable characters such as Daredevil and Dracula, bringing a distinct style and dynamic storytelling to the pages. Created iconic story arcs that shaped the narrative of superhero comics in the 1960s and 1970s. Colan's work showcased a unique blend of realism and fantasy, influencing generations of artists in the comic book medium. Received multiple awards for contributions to the industry, solidifying a legacy within the art community.

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John Waite

Cricketer with South African national team
Born
January 19th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 81 years old

This individual played as a right-handed batsman and a right-arm medium-fast bowler for the South African national cricket team. Represented South Africa in 16 Test matches from 1952 to 1957. Contributed to the team's efforts during a time of international cricketing challenges. Featured prominently in the domestic circuit as well, playing for teams such as Western Province and Transvaal.

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Dick King-Smith

English author of children's books
Born
March 27th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 89 years old

An author contributed significantly to children's literature, primarily recognized for writing more than 100 books. Gained popularity with The Sheep-Pig, which inspired the animated film Babe. Many stories featured animals as protagonists and conveyed moral lessons, captivating young readers. Collaborated with publishers and received various accolades throughout the career.

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