What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

John Madden

Football coach and sportscaster
Born
April 10th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2021 3 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent figure in American football, Madden served as a head coach for the Oakland Raiders, leading the team to a victory in Super Bowl XI. His coaching career spanned from 1969 to 1978, during which he established a winning record. After retiring from coaching, Madden transitioned to a successful career as a sportscaster, providing analysis and commentary for NFL games on various networks. His distinctive style and ability to simplify complex strategies for viewers made his broadcast segments popular among fans. Madden also lent his name to the widely recognized video game franchise, 'Madden NFL,' which became a staple in sports gaming. His contributions to the sport were significant, and he is remembered as a key figure in the growth of football in the United States.

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Betty White

Actress and television personality
Born
January 17th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2021 3 years ago — 99 years old

An American actress, game show panelist, and television personality, played significant roles in television history. Best known for appearances on 'The Golden Girls' and 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'. Her career spanned decades, with work in various formats including sitcoms, documentaries, and game shows. In addition to entertainment, engaged in animal rights activism, advocating for animal welfare causes throughout life.

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Rusty Young

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
February 23rd, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 75 years old

A singer-songwriter and guitarist contributed significantly to the country rock genre as a founding member of the band Poco. The band's harmonies and instrumentation influenced countless musicians and defined a new sound in American music during the 1970s. Focused on blending rock with country elements, played a crucial role in the creation of the band's signature sound. Released solo albums that showcased songwriting skills and musical versatility throughout a lengthy career.

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Razzy Bailey

Country music singer-songwriter
Born
February 14th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1939, this country music singer-songwriter gained recognition during the 1980s. His work included both writing and performing, leading to significant contributions to the genre. Several hit singles reached the Top 10 on the Billboard country charts. The artist's style often reflected traditional country themes, resonating with a broad audience during his prime years. Collaborations with various artists also marked a part of the career trajectory.

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Enn Tarto

Estonian politician and activist
Born
September 25th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1938, a prominent Estonian politician played a significant role in the country's transition to independence from the Soviet Union. Active in the Estonian popular front, advocated for civil rights and democratic reforms during the late 1980s. Elected as a member of the Estonian parliament after the restoration of independence in 1992, contributed to the establishment of the new political landscape in Estonia. Served in various governmental roles and has been an outspoken advocate for national sovereignty.

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Robert H. Grubbs

Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
February 27th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 79 years old

An American chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of organic chemistry. Developed metathesis methodology, which revolutionized synthetic organic chemistry. Emphasis placed on the development of catalysts to facilitate chemical reactions. Served as a professor at the California Institute of Technology and held various prominent academic positions throughout a prolific career.

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Angelo Mosca

Football player and professional wrestler
Born
February 13th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 84 years old

Played as an offensive lineman in the Canadian Football League (CFL) primarily for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Achieved success with multiple Grey Cup championships. Transitioned to professional wrestling, gaining recognition in North America. Known for a dominating presence in the ring.

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Budge Patty

Tennis player and Wimbledon champion
Born
February 11th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 97 years old

This tennis player excelled in the 1940s and 1950s, achieving significant success on both the amateur and professional circuits. Won the Wimbledon singles title in 1950, highlighting a prominent career that included participation in several Grand Slam tournaments. Secured a total of three Grand Slam singles titles during a competitive era. Renowned for strong serves and effective volleys, contributed to the global popularity of tennis.

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Frank Bonner

Actor and director of 'WKRP in Cincinnati'
Born
February 28th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1942, an American actor and television director gained recognition through the role of Herb Tarlek in the sitcom 'WKRP in Cincinnati.' The television series aired from 1978 to 1982 and became a staple of American comedy. Aside from acting, also directed several episodes of the show. Made guest appearances on other television series throughout the 1980s and 1990s, furthering television career.

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