What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Enrique Bolaños

Nicaraguan politician, President of Nicaragua
Born
May 13th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 93 years old

Served as the President of Nicaragua from 2002 to 2007. Held the position after winning the presidential elections as a candidate for the Liberal Constitutional Party. Prior to presidency, served in various government roles, including as a business executive and leader within the party. Focused on economic reforms and fostering international relations during the presidency. Post-presidency, remained active in Nicaraguan politics and continued to influence national discourse.

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Christa Stubnick

German sprinter, Olympic competitor
Born
December 12th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 88 years old

Competitor in sprinting events during the 1950s and 1960s. Participated in the 1960 Rome Olympics, achieving notable rankings in sprinting disciplines. Achieved success in various national championships and contributed to the development of women's sprinting in Germany.

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Bill Whittington

Racing driver and 24 Hours of Le Mans winner
Born
September 11th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1949, competed in various racing events, including sports car and endurance racing. Achieved significant success in the late 1970s, most notably winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1979, alongside his brother. Participated in other prestigious racing competitions, including the IMSA GT Championship, where notable performances garnered attention.

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Frank Bonner

Actor and director of 'WKRP in Cincinnati'
Born
February 28th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2021 5 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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Marcia Freedman

Israeli activist and politician
Born
May 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1938, involvement in social and political activism characterized this individual's career. Significant contributions included participation in the women's rights movement and advocacy for peace initiatives within Israel. Served as a member of the Knesset, representing significant political ideologies and engaging in public discourse on issues affecting women and society. Worked with various organizations to promote social justice and equality, contributing to legislative changes and awareness.

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Gary Paulsen

Author of adventure novels for youth
Born
May 17th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 82 years old

An American author primarily focused on children's literature, particularly adventure-themed novels. Gained recognition for works such as 'Hatchet', which tells the story of a boy's survival in the wilderness after a plane crash. The narrative explores themes of self-reliance, resilience, and nature. Paulsen's writing often draws from personal experiences, including his time spent in the wilderness and his interest in dogsledding. Authored more than 200 books, contributing to the genre of young adult fiction and inspiring a generation of readers with stories centered on adventure and survival.

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Gloria Henry

Actress in 'Dennis the Menace'
Born
April 2nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 98 years old

A prominent actress, she gained recognition for her role as the mother, Alice Mitchell, in the television series 'Dennis the Menace' which aired from 1959 to 1963. With a career spanning several decades, she appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout the 1940s to the 2000s. Henry also worked in theater, showcasing her versatility as a performer. Her contributions to the entertainment industry made her a familiar face in American households during her prime.

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Robby Steinhardt

Rock violinist and singer of Kansas
Born
May 25th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 71 years old

Active in the music scene from the early 1970s, contributed as a violinist and vocalist for the rock band Kansas. Steinhardt's playing integrated classical violin techniques into rock music, distinguishing the band's sound. Participated in the production of several successful albums, including 'Leftoverture' and 'Point of Know Return'. Toured internationally with Kansas, performing hits such as 'Carry On Wayward Son' and 'Dust in the Wind'. Steinhardt's musicianship has been influential in the fusion of rock and classical music genres.

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Rudolph Pariser

Soldier and chemist with military service
Born
December 8th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 98 years old

Served in the United States Army during World War II and participated in significant battles in the Pacific Theater. Contributed to the field of chemistry, particularly in organic compounds. Published research that advanced understanding in molecular structures.

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