What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Håkon Brusveen

Cross-country skier with Olympic medal
Born
July 15th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 94 years old

Competed in cross-country skiing during the mid-20th century. Achieved significant success at the 1952 Winter Olympics in Oslo, winning a bronze medal in the 4x10 km relay event. Participated in several national championships and contributed to the sport in Norway through competitive efforts and sportsmanship. Continued to engage in cross-country skiing activities beyond competitive events, encouraging younger athletes in the sport.

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Ralph Backstrom

Ice hockey player and coach, Stanley Cup Champion
Born
September 18th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 84 years old

Played professional ice hockey primarily with the Montreal Canadiens. Contributed to multiple Stanley Cup victories during the 1960s. Transitioned to a coaching career after retiring as a player. Coached various teams in the Western Hockey League and American Hockey League. Served as a coach at the collegiate level, promoting the sport in the educational system. Recognized for contributions both as a player and coach.

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Richard R. Ernst

Nobel Prize-winning Swiss chemist
Born
August 14th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 88 years old

A Swiss chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in the development of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Played a pivotal role in transforming NMR into a powerful analytical tool, enabling advancements in various scientific fields, including pharmaceuticals and materials science. In 1991, awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for contributions that laid the groundwork for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in medicine. Held a distinguished academic career, serving as a professor at ETH Zurich and engaging in extensive research that influenced both academic study and practical applications of NMR technology.

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Johnny Peirson

Canadian hockey player and team captain
Born
July 21st, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 96 years old

Born in 1925, played professional ice hockey in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily for the Boston Bruins and New York Rangers. Peirson was celebrated for his role as a center, contributing to the team dynamics and scoring capabilities. Known for leadership qualities, served as captain for the Bruins during the 1957-58 season. After retirement from playing, Peirson transitioned into coaching and managing, influencing the next generation of players in various capacities.

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Doris Johnson

American politician and public servant
Born
June 23rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1923, this individual served as a prominent figure in the American political landscape. Engaged in local government and community services, this politician held various leadership roles, championing policies that influenced the political fabric of her region. Active in advocating for women's rights, education reform, and social services, significant contributions were made to improve the quality of life for constituents. The career spanned decades of public service, leading to a respected legacy within her community.

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Lina Wertmüller

Italian director of 7 Beauties
Born
August 14th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 93 years old

An Italian director and screenwriter, she became prominent in the 1970s, creating films that highlighted social issues and human struggles. Her work often combined satire with poignant themes. She gained international acclaim for directing 'Seven Beauties,' which received multiple Academy Award nominations. She broke ground in the film industry as one of the first women to be nominated for an Oscar for Best Director. Other notable works include 'The Seduction of Mimi' and 'Pasqualino Settebellezze.' Her film style is characterized by bold visual storytelling and strong characterizations.

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Buddy Merrill

American guitarist and television performer
Born
July 16th, 1936 89 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.

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Norm Sherry

Baseball player and manager
Born
July 16th, 1931 94 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.

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Fred Cone

American football player, Pro Bowl selection
Born
June 21st, 1926 99 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.

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