What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Otto von Habsburg

Crown Prince of Austria-Hungary
Born
November 20th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 99 years old

Last Crown Prince of Austria-Hungary held a significant role in European history. After World War I, the monarchy ended, and Habsburg went into exile. He became a prominent advocate for European integration and unity. Habsburg served as a member of the European Parliament representing the Conservative People's Party from 1979 to 1989. Throughout life, he wrote extensively on political and historical issues, promoting democracy and European cooperation.

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Eddie Joost

Baseball player and manager, All-Star
Born
June 5th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 95 years old

Started a career in Major League Baseball in 1936 with the Cincinnati Reds. Played primarily as a shortstop and third baseman, earning recognition for outstanding defensive skills. Achieved All-Star status in 1949 while playing for the Philadelphia Athletics. Transitioned to a managerial role after retiring as a player, guiding teams in the minor leagues. Served as a coach in Major League Baseball during the 1960s and 1970s, contributing to the development of future players and managers.

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Joe Perry

American football player, Hall of Famer
Born
January 22nd, 1927 99 years ago
Died
2011 15 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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Jani Lane

Singer-songwriter of 'Cherry Pie'
Born
February 1st, 1964 62 years ago
Died
2011 15 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 88 years ago
Died
2011 15 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 91 years ago
Died
2011 15 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 111 years ago
Died
2011 15 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 75 years ago
Died
2011 15 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 84 years ago
Died
2011 15 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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