Steve Jobs 1955-2011

On October 6th, Apple announced that its founder and former CEO, Steve Jobs, had passed away, aged 56. Reports of his death first came from the Associated Press, citing confirmation from Apple.   Jobs stepped down from his role as CEO in August, following an extended leave of absence attributed to health problems. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2004, and underwent a liver transplant in 2009. A post on the Apple website 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." A statement from Jobs' family cited in the Wall Street Journal says Jobs died peacefully, surrounded by his family, and that they ask for privacy during their time of grief. Jobs founded Apple in 1976 with Steve Wozniak and Ronald Wayne, resigned from the board of directors in 1985 and then returned as CEO in 1997, with the company on the brink of bankruptcy. Following his return, Apple grew to become the largest business in the world, on the back of innovative products like the iPod, iPhone and iPad. Condolence messages can be emailed to rememberingsteve@apple.com