What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Bill Virdon

Baseball player and manager with Pirates
Born
June 9th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 90 years old

A professional baseball player, coach, and manager who played primarily as an outfielder in Major League Baseball. Spent a significant part of a playing career with the St. Louis Cardinals, where he contributed to the team's success in the 1950s. Transitioned to a management role and achieved considerable success, notably managing the Pittsburgh Pirates to a World Series title in 1971. The career spanned over several decades, with a reputation for strong defensive skills and leadership on and off the field.

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Clifton Snider

Author and poet with critical acclaim
Born
March 3rd, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 74 years old

An American author and poet, one of the notable contributions includes works of poetry and fiction that explore human emotion and experience. Published several poetry collections, essays, and critiques. Served as a professor, imparting knowledge on literature and creative writing. Engaged with various literary communities, participating in readings and workshops, enhancing the appreciation of poetry. The emphasis on personal and universal themes resonated with many readers.

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Philip K. Chapman

Astronaut and engineer for Apollo 12
Born
March 5th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 86 years old

An astronaut and engineer, contributions included work with NASA during the Apollo missions. Participated in the Apollo 12 mission as a backup crew member, contributing to advancements in space exploration. Held various engineering positions, impacting spacecraft design and operations. After retiring from NASA, engaged in teaching and sharing knowledge on aerospace engineering.

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Reinhold Roth

German motorcycle racer
Born
March 4th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 68 years old

A motorcycle racer had a successful career in the Grand Prix motorcycle racing circuit during the 1980s and 1990s. Achievements included multiple top finishes in various championships, showcasing skill on a global stage. Competed primarily in the 500 cc class and participated in the prestigious Isle of Man TT, earning respect within the racing community. Retired from competitive racing but remained active in motorcycle-related events and activities.

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J. Hillis Miller

Literary critic and scholar
Born
March 5th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 93 years old

Contributed to literary theory and criticism, focusing on modern and postmodern literature. Analyzed works of prominent authors such as James Joyce and Virginia Woolf. Served as a professor at several universities including the University of California, Irvine, and published numerous influential texts on deconstruction and narrative theory. Engaged in explorations of interpretation, reader-response theory, and the relationship between literature and philosophy.

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Patricia Kennealy-Morrison

Journalist and author of rock music
Born
March 4th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 75 years old

An American journalist and author, recognized for contributions to music journalism and fiction. Wrote extensively about rock music, with a focus on the 1960s and 1970s. Authored several books including 'Strange Days: My Life with Jim Morrison and The Doors,' detailing experiences with the iconic band. Also created science fiction works and explored themes of gender and mythology in her writing. Served as a contributing editor for various publications, enhancing discourse in music and culture.

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Jackie Mason

Comedian and actor in 'The World According to Me'
Born
June 9th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 90 years old

Birth occurred in 1931, in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Began a career as a rabbi before transitioning to stand-up comedy. Elevated comedy training in the Catskills, leading to various performances on Broadway. Created the one-man show 'The World According to Me', receiving widespread acclaim. Mason's style combined observational humor with a distinct cultural perspective, often drawing from Jewish heritage. Achieved notable recognition through appearances on television shows and performances at major comedy clubs. Recognized for unique humor and delivery.

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Patricia Hitchcock

English actress in suspense films
Born
July 7th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 93 years old

Born in England in 1928, this actress appeared in films directed by her father, Alfred Hitchcock. Gained recognition for performances in 'Stage Fright' and 'Psycho'. The latter remains one of the most iconic horror films in cinema history. Active in film and television during the mid-20th century, she contributed to various projects and later became involved in documentary filmmaking focused on her father's legacy.

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Marco Bollesan

Rugby player and coach, Italy's key figure
Born
July 7th, 1941 84 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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