What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Laurent Monsengwo Pasinya

Congolese cardinal and religious leader
Born
October 7th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1939, this cardinal served as the Archbishop of Kisangani and played a significant role in the Catholic Church in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In 2010, he participated in the Synod of Bishops for Africa, addressing issues affecting the continent and the Church. He was elevated to the cardinalate by Pope Benedict XVI in 2011, becoming one of the key figures in the African Catholic community. Throughout his ministry, he advocated for social justice and peace in a country facing numerous challenges.

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Igor Oistrakh

Ukrainian violinist and educator
Born
April 27th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 90 years old

Born in Ukraine, a distinguished violinist and educator emerged as a prominent figure in classical music. Studied at the Odessa Conservatory and later in Moscow. Held the position of professor at various prestigious institutions, shaping the next generation of musicians. Gained recognition through performances with renowned orchestras across the globe. Collaborated with notable composers and conductors, enhancing the classical repertoire. His artistry was celebrated through numerous recordings and live performances that highlighted exceptional technical skill and deep musicality.

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E. O. Wilson

Biologist and author of 'Sociobiology'
Born
June 10th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2021 4 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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Graham McRae

Race car driver; won the 1972 Tasman Series
Born
March 5th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent race car driver from New Zealand, focused on single-seater racing and active during the 1960s and 1970s. Achieved significant success in the Tasman Series, becoming the champion in 1972. Competed in various international motorsport events, including Formula 1 and Can-Am championships. Developed a reputation for skillful racing and technical knowledge, which contributed to the design of competitive race cars. Later participated in the development of racing technology and continued to influence motorsport as an engineer.

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Del Crandall

Baseball player and manager, Braves
Born
March 5th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 91 years old

Played as a professional baseball catcher primarily for the Milwaukee Braves from 1949 to 1963. After retiring as a player, transitioned into a managerial role in Major League Baseball, overseeing teams such as the Atlanta Braves and the San Francisco Giants. Crandall contributed to the game not only through his skills as a player but also through his leadership on the field as a manager.

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Paul Westphal

Basketball coach and player for the Suns
Born
November 30th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
2021 4 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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Curley Culp

American football player, NFL Hall of Famer
Born
March 10th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 75 years old

Played as a defensive tackle in the National Football League, contributing significantly to teams during a career spanning from 1968 to 1981. Achieved a prominent role with the Kansas City Chiefs, and later with the Houston Oilers. Earned recognition as a formidable player, noted for effective defensive strategies. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013, cementing a legacy within the sport.

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Josephine Medina

Paralympic table tennis player
Born
March 20th, 1970 54 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 51 years old

Competed in multiple Paralympic Games, achieving remarkable success in table tennis. Secured a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Paralympics, representing the Philippines. Participated in various international tournaments, earning recognition within the sport. Advocated for sports inclusivity and served as an inspiration for aspiring athletes with disabilities.

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Don Sutton

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
April 2nd, 1945 79 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 76 years old

Born on April 2, 1945, a prominent career in Major League Baseball spanned from 1966 to 1988. Played primarily as a starting pitcher for teams including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Houston Astros, and the Oakland Athletics. Achieved a significant milestone by recording over 300 career wins and 3,574 strikeouts, ranking among the top pitchers in MLB history. Transitioned to a sportscasting career after retirement, providing analysis for various networks. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1998, recognizing contributions to the sport.

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