What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Claudia Heill

Austrian judoka and Olympic medalist
Born
January 24th, 1982 43 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 29 years old

Competed in judo, achieving significant success at the international level. Secured a bronze medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics in the women's -63 kg category. Represented Austria in multiple European Championships, securing medals and helping to elevate the profile of judo in the country. Regularly participated in international competitions, contributing to the growth of the sport within Austria.

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Albert Rosellini

American lawyer and 15th Governor of Washington
Born
January 21st, 1910 115 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 101 years old

Served as the 15th Governor of Washington from 1957 to 1965. Played a significant role in the development of the state's infrastructure, particularly in the expansion of the highway system. Involved in various initiatives to enhance educational funding and mental health services during the governorship. After leaving office, continued to be active in state politics and community affairs.

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Joe Perry

American football player, Hall of Famer
Born
January 22nd, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 84 years old

A professional American football player, he played as a fullback in the National Football League (NFL) primarily for the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Colts. During a career spanning from 1948 to 1963, he was selected as a Pro Bowl player multiple times. He gained recognition for his remarkable rushing ability and was a key player during his tenure. In 1963, he became the first player in NFL history to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season. His statistics and contributions to the game led to induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973.

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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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Jani Lane

Singer-songwriter of 'Cherry Pie'
Born
February 1st, 1964 61 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 47 years old

A prominent figure in the rock music scene during the late 1980s and early 1990s, the individual gained widespread recognition as the lead vocalist of the band Warrant. The band achieved significant success with their debut album, which included the hit single 'Cherry Pie,' contributing to the popularity of glam metal. The individual also ventured into solo projects, showcasing songwriting skills and a distinctive voice. Warrant's albums such as 'Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich' and 'Dog Eat Dog' further cemented the band's place in rock history, with multiple chart-topping hits.

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Ronald H. Miller

Theologian and author on Christian theology
Born
April 17th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed extensively to the field of Christian theology through academic writings and teachings. Served as a professor at several institutions, influencing students and promoting theological discourse. Authored numerous books, focusing on the intersection of faith and contemporary issues.

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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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