UN veteran managed peacekeeping in world's hotspots Weâre sorry, this service is currently unavailable. Please try again later. Dismiss January 6, 2021 â 3.01pm Save Normal text size BRIAN URQUHART: 1919 - 2021 Brian Urquhart, who became the second official hired by the United Nations after its formation in 1945 and who helped shape and manage the international body through the final years of the Cold War, has died aged 101 at his home in Massachusetts. A principal adviser to five UN secretaries general, Urquhart played a central role in translating the body's founding principles into action. He said his work at the UN was motivated by âidealism of a very practical kindâ following his traumatic experiences in World War II.