What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Paul Westphal

Basketball coach and player for the Suns
Born
November 30th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent basketball player and coach, Westphal played the majority of his career with the Phoenix Suns in the NBA. As a player, he was selected as a five-time All-Star and earned All-NBA First Team honors in 1977. Transitioning to coaching, he led the Suns to the NBA Finals in 1993. His coaching career also included stints with teams such as the Seattle SuperSonics and Sacramento Kings, demonstrating a strong understanding of the game throughout his career.

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Marco Bollesan

Rugby player and coach, Italy's key figure
Born
July 7th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 80 years old

An Italian rugby player and coach, started professional career in the 1960s. Played as a forward and contributed significantly to the national team. Transitioned to coaching after retiring as a player, influencing the development of rugby in Italy. Served as head coach for various club teams, emphasizing the importance of skill development and teamwork. Contributed to the growth of rugby's popularity in Italy.

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Paul Hellyer

Canadian politician and Minister of Defence
Born
August 6th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 98 years old

An influential Canadian politician and engineer. Served as the 16th Minister of National Defence from 1963 to 1967, overseeing the unification of the Canadian Armed Forces. Involved in various political parties throughout a lengthy career, contributing to discussions on military and foreign policy. Authored several books on finance and government reform, expressing unique views on monetary systems.

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Matthew Festing

79th Prince and Grand Master of Malta
Born
November 30th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 72 years old

Held the position of Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta from 2008 to 2017. Participated in various charitable activities and focused on humanitarian efforts during tenure. Contributed to the preservation of the Order's heritage and governance, navigating through challenges within the organization. Contributed to diplomatic relations and the interests of the Order in various international forums.

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Prince Amedeo

Duke of Aosta, Italian nobleman
Born
September 27th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 78 years old

Born into the Italian royal family, held the title of Duke of Aosta. Attended the University of Turin, where studies focused on economics and political science. Undertook a military career, serving in the Italian Army and participating in international missions. Engaged in various social and cultural initiatives, promoting Italian heritage and traditions. Involved in the administration of family properties and foundations dedicated to charitable causes.

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Terrence Clarke

Basketball player, Boston Celtics draft pick
Born
September 6th, 2001 24 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 20 years old

Played college basketball at the University of Kentucky before declaring for the NBA Draft. Selected in the second round by the Boston Celtics in 2021. Passed away in a tragic car accident shortly before the start of the NBA season. Clarke was a highly regarded prospect and was known for his scoring ability and athleticism during his time at Kentucky.

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Michael Nesmith

Singer-songwriter and guitarist, The Monkees
Born
December 30th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent figure in music and television, the individual contributed significantly to the pop music landscape in the 1960s. Achievements include being a member of The Monkees, a band formed specifically for a television series. The group released several albums, including 'Headquarters,' which showcased a mix of original compositions and covers. The individual also had a successful solo career, with hits that explored country rock and pop genres. Later work included producing and directing television and film projects, notably the cult classic film 'Head.' During the 1970s, the individual gained recognition for pioneering music videos and was a key figure in the early days of the music television format.

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E. O. Wilson

Biologist and author of 'Sociobiology'
Born
June 10th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 92 years old

This individual was an American biologist and author, whose work primarily focused on biodiversity and the behavior of social insects. Greatly influential in the field of sociobiology, the individual proposed that social behavior has a genetic basis. The research conducted contributed to understanding the relationship between genetics, behavior, and the evolution of species. The individual authored several books, including 'Sociobiology: The New Synthesis' and 'The Ants', which won the Pulitzer Prize. In later years, efforts were directed towards biodiversity conservation and the study of threats to the environment.

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Joanne Linville

Actress known for Star Trek role
Born
January 15th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 93 years old

An American actress, active from the late 1940s, gained recognition for portraying the character of Narcissa in the iconic television series Star Trek in the episode titled "The Enterprise Incident." Additionally, appeared in guest roles on numerous television shows including The Twilight Zone, The Fugitive, and columbo. Also worked in theatre, particularly on Broadway. Voiced characters in animated series.

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