What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Bob Forsch

Baseball player and pitcher
Born
January 13th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 61 years old

A professional baseball player, played as a pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals in Major League Baseball (MLB). Made significant contributions to the team's success during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Achieved notable recognition for throwing two no-hitters, cementing a legacy within the franchise. Accumulated over 168 wins and was known for being a durable pitcher. Competed in two World Series, contributing to the Cardinals' championship titles.

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Liz Anderson

American singer-songwriter, 'Top of the World'
Born
January 13th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 84 years old

This artist gained recognition in the country music genre during the 1960s and 1970s. Notable for songwriting and performing, she made significant contributions to the country music landscape. Her songwriting talent particularly shone through when her composition, 'Top of the World,' became an iconic hit for The Carpenters. Anderson also released several albums that showcased her distinctive style and vocal ability, achieving chart success with her singles. Throughout her career, she influenced many artists in the country music scene and gained respect for her craft.

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Peter Frelinghuysen Jr.

American politician and military officer
Born
January 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 95 years old

Served as a U.S. Congressman representing New Jersey from 1953 to 1974. Held the position of chairman of the House Committee on Science and Astronautics. Participated in World War II as a U.S. Army officer, achieving the rank of lieutenant. Engaged in local politics prior to congressional service, influencing regional policies.

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Alberto de Mendoza

Argentine actor in film and television
Born
January 21st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 88 years old

Born in Argentina, a prominent actor developed a successful career in film and television beginning in the 1940s. Gained recognition for performances in various films, particularly in the genre of drama and horror. Starred in significant Argentine films such as 'Los Olvidados' and 'El Rayo.' Appeared in numerous telenovelas, becoming a familiar face to television audiences. Worked extensively in theater and received acclaim for live performances. Received awards for contributions to the arts.

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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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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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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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Magnus Malan

South African general and Minister of Defence
Born
January 30th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 81 years old

Served as a general in the South African Defense Force and held the position of Minister of Defence from 1990 to 1994. Participated in military operations during the apartheid era and was involved in the transition to democracy in South Africa. After leaving politics, engaged in various business ventures and continued to influence military discourse in the country.

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Rudolf Mössbauer

Physicist, Nobel Prize winner for spectroscopy
Born
January 31st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 82 years old

A German physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of nuclear gamma resonance spectroscopy. Developed the Mössbauer effect, demonstrating recoil-free gamma-ray emission and absorption in solids. This groundbreaking work facilitated advancements in various scientific disciplines, including chemistry, physics, and geology. The achievement garnered a Nobel Prize in Physics in 1961, awarded for pioneering research in fundamental properties of atomic nuclei and their interactions.

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