Steve Jobs passed away today, Wednesday October 5, 2011, at the age of 56. As the chairman and co-founder of Apple, Jobs irrevocably changed the way we use and think about technology with his intense interest in making it better, easier to use and more beautiful.
As an orphan of immigrant parentage who rose to the literal pinnacle of his calling through hard work and invention, Jobs epitomizes the American myth. When coupled with his obvious skill as a CEO and public speaker, it made him a fascinating character to watch. When you’re passionate about something, when you live and breathe it, it shows.
Yes, Jobs was a gifted orator and showman, but that was augmented by his love and passion for his products because he had a hand in causing them to be. The impact of that personal connection cannot be understated.
Jobs died peacefully and is survived by his wife Laureen and four children and they will miss him as a man who “cherished his family.”
The rest of us will miss him in a less intimate, but somehow still personal, way.
In his span here on Earth, Jobs defined the computer as something more than a tool. He made it personal. He founded a company, was forced to leave it behind and brought it back from the edge of disaster on his return. It is now the most valuable in the world.
Read More »
