What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Faidon Matthaiou

Basketball player and coach, AEK Athens
Born
July 12th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Greece, this basketball player had a prominent career in the sport both as a player and a coach. His playing career included significant contributions to AEK Athens, where he helped the team secure national championships. Following his playing days, he transitioned into coaching, leading various teams in Greece and impacting the development of basketball in the region. His dual role in basketball, excelling on the court and later behind the bench, marked a significant chapter in Greek basketball history.

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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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Ellen Stewart

Theater director and producer of The La Mama
Born
November 7th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 92 years old

A significant figure in American theater, contributions included founding La MaMa Experimental Theatre Club in New York City in 1961, which became a crucial venue for avant-garde productions. Directed numerous plays that showcased diverse voices and pushed boundaries of theatrical expression. Produced works by many emerging playwrights, fostering their careers and providing them a platform. Advocated for the arts, particularly for experimental theater, throughout her career.

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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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Josef Vašíček

Czech ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Born
September 12th, 1980 44 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 31 years old

Played professional ice hockey primarily in the National Hockey League (NHL). Vašíček was a forward who represented several teams, most notably the Carolina Hurricanes. Contributed to the team's success in winning the Stanley Cup in 2006. Also played for the New York Islanders and had a notable career in international competitions, representing the Czech Republic.

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Chuck Gilmur

Basketball player and coach, educator
Born
August 13th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 89 years old

A professional basketball player and coach, played for various teams in the NBA and served as a coach at different levels throughout his career. Contributed to basketball as an educator, teaching fundamentals and sharing knowledge with students and athletes. Led teams to various championships and fostered the growth of young players in the sport.

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David Cairns

Scottish politician and Minister of State
Born
August 7th, 1966 58 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 45 years old

A Scottish laicised priest and politician, served as Minister of State for Scotland from 2005 to 2010. Represented the Inverclyde constituency in the House of Commons from 2001 until 2010. Worked on promoting Scottish interests within the UK government, particularly in the areas of health and education. Contributed to legislative processes and policy discussions during time in office.

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