What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

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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Marty Marion

Baseball player and manager, St. Louis Cardinals
Born
December 1st, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 94 years old

A professional baseball player and manager, primarily active in Major League Baseball. Played as a shortstop for the St. Louis Cardinals from 1940 to 1950, contributing to the team's success during that period. Managed the Cardinals from 1951 to 1952. Marion was part of the 1942 and 1944 World Series championship teams, showcasing defensive skills that earned him recognition in the league.

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Lawrence Eagleburger

Politician, 62nd U.S. Secretary of State
Born
August 1st, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the 62nd Secretary of State from 1992 to 1993 under President George H.W. Bush. Held the position as a significant figure during the final days of the Cold War and the subsequent transition in Eastern Europe. Earlier career included roles as Deputy Secretary of State and in various capacities within the U.S. Foreign Service. Played critical roles in U.S. foreign policy and diplomatic relations.

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John Kraaijkamp Sr.

Dutch actor and television star
Born
April 19th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent Dutch actor, notable contributions spanned film, television, and theater. Achievements included significant roles in various television series, especially the sitcom 'Kraaijkaamp' which became a staple of Dutch entertainment. The actor also appeared in movies throughout his career, gaining a reputation for his comedic timing and versatility in performance. Kraaijkamp collaborated with numerous esteemed Dutch directors and actors, cementing a legacy within the Dutch entertainment industry.

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Georges Rivière

French actor in 'Les Enfants du Paradis'
Born
July 1st, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 87 years old

Active in the French film industry, achieved recognition through participation in notable cinematic works. Featured prominently in 'Les Enfants du Paradis', a film that is regarded as a classic of French cinema. Additionally worked in theater, contributing to various productions that showcased a range of talents. Rivière's career spanned several decades, significantly influencing French performing arts.

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Jerry Lawson

Electronic engineer and game cartridge inventor
Born
December 1st, 1940 84 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 71 years old

An electronic engineer and inventor, played a critical role in the development of video game technology. Created the first interchangeable video game cartridges for home video game consoles, which revolutionized the gaming industry. Worked at Fairchild Semiconductor, where contributed to the launch of the Fairchild Channel F, the first home console featuring removable cartridges. Later, founded his own video game company, which designed games for various platforms and focused on increasing diversity in the gaming industry.

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Rick Coonce

American drummer for The Monkees
Born
August 1st, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 65 years old

Played drums for the pop-rock band The Monkees during the 1960s. Contributed to the band's sound on iconic tracks and albums, helping to shape the musical landscape of the era. Involved in various recording sessions and tours, significantly impacting the band's success and popularity. Continued to engage with music in later years, remaining active in the industry.

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Józef Życiński

Polish archbishop and philosopher
Born
September 1st, 1948 76 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 63 years old

An influential Polish archbishop and philosopher, served as the Archbishop of Lublin from 1997 until 2010. Engaged in theological discourse and was active in social and religious issues. Contributed significantly to discussions surrounding ethics, culture, and religion. Played a key role in fostering dialogue within the Church and between different faiths. Participated in various international conferences on philosophy and religion, promoting understanding and cooperation.

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Grete Waitz

Norwegian marathon runner and coach
Born
October 1st, 1953 71 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 58 years old

An accomplished long-distance runner, this individual excelled in the marathon and significantly contributed to women's athletics. Winning nine New York City Marathons from 1978 to 1988 established a remarkable legacy. In 1983, set a world record in the marathon with a time of 2:25:29. Transitioned into coaching and inspired many athletes, particularly in Norway. Earned a silver medal in the marathon at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.

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