Steve Jobs has Passed Away

Our thoughts are with Steve Jobs, the former Apple CEO today, as it is reported that he has passed away. The official message from Apple:

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.

You can now go to his remembrance page and share your memories and condolences.

Update: Apple employees are walking out of Apple HQ looking sad. Flags half staffed.

Update: Bill Gates reacts to Steve’s death:

I’m truly saddened to learn of Steve Jobs’ death. Melinda and I extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends, and to everyone Steve has touched through his work.

Steve and I first met nearly 30 years ago, and have been colleagues, competitors and friends over the course of more than half our lives.

The world rarely sees someone who has had the profound impact Steve has had, the effects of which will be felt for many generations to come.

For those of us lucky enough to get to work with him, it’s been an insanely great honor. I will miss Steve immensely.

Update: Apple workers take pictures of the flag at Apple HQ. Press is arriving. Employees say news traveled “desk-by-desk”

Update: Growd gathering at Apple HQ. People paying respects to Steve Jobs.

Update: General public is getting kicked out of Apple HQ, as to not harass Apple employees.

Update: Barack Obama on Steve’s death: “He changed the way each of us sees the world.”

Update: Mark Zuckerberg on Steve’s death: “Steve, thank you for being a mentor and a friend. Thanks for showing that what you build can change the world. I will miss you.”

Update: Tim Cook on Steve’s death: “No words can adequately express our sadness at Steve’s death or our gratitude for the opportunity to work with him. We will honor his memory by dedicating ourselves to continuing the work he loved so much.”

Update: People mourn at Apple stores nationwide.

How has Steve Jobs changed you? Leave your response in the comments in honor of this great leader.