What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Hannu Mikkola

Race car driver; 1983 World Rally Champion
Born
May 24th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 79 years old

Competed in rally racing from the 1960s to the 1980s. Best performances in the World Rally Championship included winning the title in 1983, driving for Audi. Contributed to the popularity of the sport with notable achievements in various iconic events. Achieved numerous victories across multiple rallies, showcasing skill and technical ability in driving. His legacy includes significant advancements in rally car technology and driving techniques.

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Momčilo Vukotić

Footballer and manager, European champion
Born
June 2nd, 1950 74 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 71 years old

A Serbian footballer and manager, made significant contributions to the sport in the 1970s and 1980s. Played as a midfielder and was part of the successful Red Star Belgrade team that secured the European Cup in 1991. Transitioned into management after retirement, overseeing various clubs and making influential decisions within the teams.

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Sarah Dash

American singer-songwriter and actress
Born
August 18th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent figure in the music industry, a celebrated singer and songwriter rose to fame as a member of the vocal group Labelle. The group achieved massive success with the hit song 'Lady Marmalade,' which topped charts in the 1970s. Dash also had a successful solo career, releasing several albums and singles that showcased her vocal talent. In addition to music, Dash acted in theatre productions and television shows, further demonstrating her versatility as an entertainer.

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John Polkinghorne

Physicist and theologian
Born
October 16th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 91 years old

An English physicist and theologian, contributed significantly to the dialogue between science and religion. Worked at the University of Cambridge, where served as a professor of mathematical physics. Transitioned from a successful career in physics to a role in the Anglican priesthood. Authored several books exploring the intersections of faith and science, including 'Quantum Physics and Theology' and 'The Faith of a Physicist'.

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Roger Hawkins

American session drummer for Muscle Shoals
Born
October 16th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent session drummer, contributed extensively to the Muscle Shoals sound during the 1960s and 1970s. Played on numerous hit tracks for various artists, including Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett, and The Rolling Stones. Known for a distinctive drumming style that greatly influenced the southern rock genre. Collaborated with the famed Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section, recording on many albums that defined the era.

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Phil Schaap

Jazz disc jockey and historian
Born
April 8th, 1951 73 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent figure in the world of jazz, contributed significantly to the genre through various radio shows and historical analysis. Hosted jazz programs on several radio stations, including WKCR-FM, where educational content about jazz history was emphasized. Played a critical role in preserving and sharing the works of legendary musicians. Served as a jazz historian with a deep knowledge of the genre's evolution and its key figures.

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John Muckler

Ice hockey coach and manager
Born
April 13th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent figure in ice hockey, contributed as a coach and manager. Served as head coach for the Edmonton Oilers, guiding the team to a Stanley Cup victory in 1984. Later worked as general manager for the New York Rangers and Ottawa Senators, playing a key role in team development and player acquisitions. His career in hockey spanned several decades, focusing on strategies and building successful teams.

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Myoma Myint Kywe

Burmese historian and journalist
Born
April 14th, 1960 64 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent historian and journalist, specialized in documenting Burmese history and culture. Played a significant role in advocating for press freedom and historical accuracy in writings. Worked as an editor and writer for various publications, contributing to the understanding of Myanmar's historical narratives. Engaged in educational activities, promoting historical awareness among the younger generations. Also involved in discussions surrounding political and social issues in Myanmar.

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Adam Zagajewski

Polish poet and essayist
Born
June 21st, 1945 79 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1945, this individual emerged as a significant figure in contemporary literature, contributing to poetry and essays. Voicing experiences of exile and identity, the work reflects on the relationship between memory and place. The author lived in Poland until 1981, played a crucial role in the cultural opposition against communism, and later settled in the United States, where literature flourished. His essays often explore themes of art, politics, and personal reflection, providing insights into both Polish history and broader human existence. Major works include 'Landscape After Battle' and 'Tremor,' which earned international recognition. Contributions to various literary magazines and anthologies further established this individual's prominence in literary circles.

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