Apple Inc. co-founder and until recently CEO Steve Jobs has died at the age of 56. Jobs had battled a rare form of cancer for years.
Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO since Steve Jobs resigned in August, sent an e-mail to all Apple employees announcing Jobs passing. In the letter, Cook said that “Apple has lost a visionary and creative genius, and the world has lost an amazing human being. Those of us who have been fortunate enough to know and work with Steve have lost a dear friend and an inspiring mentor. Steve leaves behind a company that only he could have built, and his spirit will forever be the foundation of Apple.”
A similar piece was posted at Apple’s website. People who want to share thoughts, memories and condolences in the interim can e-mail [email protected].
Cook said that company is planning a celebration of Steve’s extraordinary life for Apple employees that “will take place soon.” He ended the e-mail saying that “no words can adequately express our sadness at Steve’s death or our gratitude for the opportunity to work with him. We will honor his memory by dedicating ourselves to continuing the work he loved so much.”
Jobs passed away the day after Apple announced its latest iconic iPhone device, the 4S.
In a statement, Microsoft Corp. co-founder Bill Gates said: “I’m truly saddened to learn of Steve Jobs’ death. Melinda and I extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends, and to everyone Steve has touched through his work. Steve and I first met nearly 30 years ago, and have been colleagues, competitors and friends over the course of more than half our lives. The world rarely sees someone who has had the profound impact Steve has had, the effects of which will be felt for many generations to come. For those of us lucky enough to get to work with him, it’s been an insanely great honor. I will miss Steve immensely.”
Check it out
- Steve Jobs bio at Wikipedia
- Steve Jobs Stanford commencement speech in 2005
- Siri: the top iPhone 4S feature
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