RIP Steve Jobs
Steve Jobs, former CEO of Apple, passed away today (Wednesday October 5) at the age of 56. His death ended his battle with pancreatic cancer, which brought him to retirement as CEO just over a month ago.
Steve has been known to talk publicly about death, saying, “Remembering that I’ll be dead soon is the most important tool I’ve ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life.” He has also said, “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma, which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.”
Apple has confirmed his death, saying, “We are deeply saddened to announce that Steve Jobs passed away today. Steve’s brilliance, passion, and energy were the source of countless innovations that enrich and improve all of our lives. The world is immeasurably better because of Steve. His greatest love was for his wife, Laurence, and his family. Our hearts go out to them and to all who were touched by his extraordinary gifts.”
Apple’s website showcases a photograph of him with the text “1955 - 2011” underneath his name. The page at Apple.com/SteveJobs reads: ”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.”
Though Steve kept to himself, his contributions to the world as a master innovator have made him one of the most recognized and respected CEOs on earth. Apple is asking you to share thoughts, memories, and condolences by email at RememberingSteve@Apple.com.