What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

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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Inese Jaunzeme

Javelin thrower and surgeon
Born
May 21st, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 79 years old

Achieved recognition as a javelin thrower and a surgeon. Competed in the 1956 Summer Olympics and secured a bronze medal in women's javelin. Had a successful career in medicine, specializing in surgery within Latvia. Contributed to the sport and healthcare fields during and after competitive career.

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Nikolai Andrianov

Gymnast and Olympic gold medalist
Born
October 14th, 1952 72 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 59 years old

Accomplished gymnast and coach. Competed for the Soviet Union during the 1970s. Achieved significant success at the Olympic Games, securing multiple medals. Dominated the 1972 Munich Olympics, winning six gold and two silver medals. Contributed to the sport as a coach after retirement, influencing future generations of gymnasts.

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Russell Hoban

Author of children's literature
Born
February 4th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 86 years old

An author and illustrator, contributions primarily spanned children's literature and adult fiction. Achievements include creating the renowned children's book series featuring Frances the badger. Worked in various genres, producing novels and illustrating his own works. Explored themes of identity, culture, and the human experience. Published over twenty novels and received critical acclaim for unique narrative styles and engaging storytelling.

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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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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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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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Kurt Nielsen

Danish tennis player and sportscaster
Born
November 19th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 81 years old

A significant figure in tennis during the mid-20th century, a professional tennis player and later a referee and sportscaster contributed to the sport's popularity. Achievements include performance in three Grand Slam tournaments where reached the semi-finals, specifically at the French Open in 1955. Transitioned successfully into commentary, offering insights and analysis of tennis matches. Also held the position of a national team coach, developing future Danish tennis talent. Engaged in various roles within tennis governance and continued relationship with the sport.

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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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