Former Apple CEO and Disney Board Member Steve Jobs Dead

Former Apple CEO and Disney board member Steve Jobs has passed away according to Apple.  Apple’s website this afternoon read:

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 inspiring mentor. Steve leaves behind a company that only he could have built, and his spirit will forever be the foundation of Apple. 

The board of directors for Apple released this statement:

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, Laurene, and his family. Our hearts go out to them and to all who were touched by his extraordinary gifts.

In a statement released by his family, it was confirmed that Jobs “died peacefully today surrounded by his family…We know many of you will mourn with us, and we ask that you respect our privacy during our time of grief.

Steve Jobs was the co-founder of Apple in 1975 at age 21 and had recently stepped down as its CEO, becoming the Chairman of the Board.  While at Apple he is credited with developing the concept of the personal computer and mouse. Under his tenure Apple created the iPod, iPhone, and iPad. He also co-founded Pixar Animation Studios where he was also the CEO. After Pixar merged with the Walt Disney Company in 2006, Steve Jobs became a board member for the Walt Disney Company.

Steve Jobs was 56 at the time of his death and had in the past struggled with pancreatic cancer (2004) and then had his liver removed (2009).

Mr. Jobs is survived by his wife, Laurene, and four children.

Comments or thoughts about Steve Jobs can be left on Apple’s website: www.apple.com