What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

George Tooker

American painter; work includes 'The Waiting Room'
Born
August 5th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 91 years old

An American painter, recognized for creating figurative works that often incorporate surreal elements. Tooker's art reflects social concerns and a deep empathy for the human condition. He studied at the National Academy of Design and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. His paintings feature intricate details and rich colors, depicting individuals in contemplative settings. 'The Waiting Room', created in 1950, is one of his signature works, illustrating themes of isolation and connection. Throughout his career, Tooker received various accolades and exhibited widely across the United States and internationally.

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Wiel Coerver

Football manager and player, Coerver Method
Born
December 3rd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 87 years old

A Dutch football player and manager, recognized for developing the Coerver Method, a technique focused on improving individual skills and ball control. Played as a midfielder during the 1940s and 1950s. Transitioned into coaching, where he implemented the Coerver Method to train players and teams. His coaching influenced many football academies and trainers worldwide, emphasizing skill development through structured training sessions. Worked with various clubs and national teams, contributing to the growth of young talent in football.

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Magnus Malan

South African general and Minister of Defence
Born
January 30th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
2011 15 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 97 years ago
Died
2011 15 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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Rolland W. Redlin

American lawyer and politician
Born
February 29th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 91 years old

Born on February 29, 1920, a prominent figure in law and political affairs. Practiced law in Wisconsin and served in various political roles, including as a state senator. Engaged in legislation impacting education and labor laws during tenure in the Wisconsin State Legislature. Played a significant role in legal reforms and community initiatives, representing constituents' interests.

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Gene Colan

Comic book illustrator for Marvel Comics
Born
September 1st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 85 years old

An illustrator contributed significantly to the comic book industry, particularly for Marvel Comics. Worked on notable characters such as Daredevil and Dracula, bringing a distinct style and dynamic storytelling to the pages. Created iconic story arcs that shaped the narrative of superhero comics in the 1960s and 1970s. Colan's work showcased a unique blend of realism and fantasy, influencing generations of artists in the comic book medium. Received multiple awards for contributions to the industry, solidifying a legacy within the art community.

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John Waite

Cricketer with South African national team
Born
January 19th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 81 years old

This individual played as a right-handed batsman and a right-arm medium-fast bowler for the South African national cricket team. Represented South Africa in 16 Test matches from 1952 to 1957. Contributed to the team's efforts during a time of international cricketing challenges. Featured prominently in the domestic circuit as well, playing for teams such as Western Province and Transvaal.

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Dick King-Smith

English author of children's books
Born
March 27th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 89 years old

An author contributed significantly to children's literature, primarily recognized for writing more than 100 books. Gained popularity with The Sheep-Pig, which inspired the animated film Babe. Many stories featured animals as protagonists and conveyed moral lessons, captivating young readers. Collaborated with publishers and received various accolades throughout the career.

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Zyzz

Bodybuilder and internet personality
Born
March 24th, 1989 37 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 22 years old

A Russian-Australian bodybuilder and internet personality, gained popularity through social media and fitness forums. Emphasized an aesthetic approach to bodybuilding, promoting a lifestyle of fitness and positivity. Influenced many in the fitness community with motivational content and workout advice. Established a significant presence on platforms like YouTube and Instagram. His untimely death in 2011 led to an enduring legacy in the fitness culture.

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