His family offered this statement following the announcement:
Steve died peacefully today surrounded by his family.
In his public life, Steve was known as a visionary; in his private life, he cherished his family. We are thankful to the many people who have shared their wishes and prayers during the last year of Steve’s illness; a website will be provided for those who wish to offer tributes and memories.
We are grateful for the support and kindness of those who share our feelings for Steve. We know many of you will mourn with us, and we ask that you respect our privacy during our time of grief.
Mr. Jobs co-founded Apple in 1976 and played a major role in shaping the future of the personal computer. He also changed the music industry with the introduction of the iPod, and the cell phone industry with the release of the iPhone.
Steve Jobs after returning to Apple in 1997
Along with Mr. Jobs’s family, Apple CEO Tim Cook shared his thoughts with company employees and the world by saying “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.”
Apple’s Board of Directors added “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.”
Apple is planning a celebration of Mr. Jobs’s life and is offering the public the opportunity to share their condolences and thoughts at [email protected].