What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Buddy Merrill

American guitarist and television performer
Born
July 16th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 85 years old

A guitarist gained fame as a performer on television, particularly through appearances on 'The Lawrence Welk Show'. His guitar skills included both classical and popular styles, showcasing versatility. Contributions to the music industry included recordings in various genres and collaborations with notable musicians.

Continue Reading

Norm Sherry

Baseball player and manager
Born
July 16th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 90 years old

Played in Major League Baseball as a catcher, making significant contributions primarily with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Transitioned into coaching and management, notably serving as the manager for the Chicago White Sox. Worked as a coach for several teams, including the California Angels, where developed young talent.

Continue Reading

Fred Cone

American football player, Pro Bowl selection
Born
June 21st, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 95 years old

Played as a placekicker in the National Football League for the Green Bay Packers and the New York Giants. Achieved recognition for proficiency in scoring, particularly in field goals and extra points. Participated in the NFL Pro Bowl, showcasing exceptional skills and contributions on the field. Contributed to his teams with reliable kicking abilities, impacting games throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Carolyn S. Shoemaker

American astronomer and comet discoverer
Born
June 24th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 92 years old

An American astronomer focused on planetary science and comet discovery. Collaborated with husband, Eugene Shoemaker, on several significant celestial discoveries. Played a crucial role in the identification of impacts on Earth by asteroids and comets. Discovered numerous comets, including Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9, which famously collided with Jupiter in 1994, providing valuable data for understanding cosmic events. Conducted extensive research on the geology of the Moon and Mars, contributing to planetary mapping and geological analysis.

Continue Reading

Mamnoon Hussain

12th President of Pakistan
Born
December 23rd, 1940 84 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the 12th President of Pakistan from 2013 to 2018. Engaged in politics after a successful business career. Joined the Pakistan Muslim League (N) party in the 1960s and held various positions within the party. Elected as President following successful elections held in 2013. His tenure included responsibilities such as overseeing the parliamentary process and representing the nation both domestically and internationally.

Continue Reading

Hilton Valentine

Guitarist for The Animals, iconic songs
Born
May 21st, 1943 81 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 78 years old

An English guitarist and songwriter, contributed significantly to the rock music scene in the 1960s. Played lead guitar for the band The Animals, which gained popularity for its rhythm and blues sound. The band's rendition of 'House of the Rising Sun' became a number one hit in multiple countries in 1964, showcasing distinctive guitar work and vocal delivery. After The Animals, continued to work on music and formed several bands, exploring various musical styles. His contributions to rock music have been recognized with various accolades.

Continue Reading

John Konrads

Australian swimmer and Olympic medalist
Born
May 21st, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 79 years old

An Australian swimmer, this individual gained prominence in the 1960s. Achievements include competing in the 1960 Rome Olympics, earning a silver medal in the 400-meter freestyle. Additionally, numerous Australian national titles were secured throughout the career. Established a reputation for significant contributions to competitive swimming before transitioning into coaching and promoting the sport.

Continue Reading

Yaphet Kotto

Actor in ‘Alien’ and ‘Live and Let Die’
Born
November 15th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 82 years old

An actor and screenwriter achieved recognition for roles in film and television. Career began in the 1960s, with early appearances in programs such as 'Thanks for the Memories.' Gained significant acclaim for performances in 'Alien' and 'Live and Let Die.' Later starred in the series 'Homicide: Life on the Street.' Contributed to various films and shows as both an actor and a writer.

Continue Reading

Slick Leonard

Basketball coach and player with NBA title
Born
July 17th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent figure in American basketball, served as a player and coach. Played for the Minneapolis Lakers from 1956 to 1965, contributing to the team's success in the NBA. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, leading the Indiana Pacers to three American Basketball Association championships in the 1970s. Played a significant role in the development of basketball strategies and young players. Recognized for leadership and contribution to the game.

Continue Reading