Steve Jobs 1955 – 2011
“I have always said if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple’s CEO, I would be the first to let you know. Unfortunately, that day has come.”
Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple passed away yesterday in California, aged 56. Jobs had been battling a unique form of pancreatic cancer in recent years and had stepped down as Apple’s chief executive in August.
Apple has released a statement in tribute to their co-founder: “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.”
Jobs was seen as more than just a chief executive by Apple’s fans, some referring to him as the ‘Apple cult’ leader. He also brightened the lives of millions of children and adults as the majority share holder of Pixar Animation Studios until 2006, which made films including Toy Story and Finding Nemo under his tenure.
Jobs co-founded Apple in the 70’s with Steve Wozniak and was one of the first to exploit the potential of a mouse driven interface in a domestic computer.
The pivotal point in Jobs’ ascent as a figurehead of modern technology came in 1997, when, after almost a decade in the wilderness he returned to the then ailing computer company, bringing with him a the inventive spirit that characterised Apple’s initial success – it proved to be their saving grace.
Having been forced out in 1985, Jobs returned to apple in 1997, proving to be the then ailing computer company’s saving grace. By encouraging the development of devices that were not only functional but also aesthetically attractive Apple quickly dominating the mp3 market with the iPod and a new desktop computer that was to become synonymous with creativity and reliability. Apple would soon grow and branch out into the mobile phone market, becoming one of the most globally recognized status symbols.
Jobs’ drive for gadgetry, coupled with his flair and charisma led Apple to briefly hold the title of Worlds Most Valuable Company, overtaking oil giant Exxon Mobil.
Jobs is survived by his wife, Laurene , and four children and leaves behind a wealth of $8.3 billion, of which he once said: “Being the richest man in the cemetery doesn’t matter to me … Going to bed at night saying we’ve done something wonderful … that’s what matters to me.”
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