Tributes to Apple co-founder Steve Jobs

6th October 2011 -- Steve Jobs, the visionary co-founder of Apple Inc. who revolutionised the way we use technology, has died after fighting advanced pancreatic cancer since 2004.

Apple fans have been leaving flowers outside the Apple Store in Covent Garden, London as a tribute to Mr Jobs.

His family issued a statement saying: "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."

Tributes

Stephen Fry, gadget lover, actor and president of the mental health charity Mind says on twitter: "Woke to the news of Steve Jobs's death. He changed the world. I knew him a little and admired him entirely. Love to Apple and his family."

President Obama issued a statement saying: "Steve was among the greatest of American innovators -- brave enough to think differently, bold enough to believe he could change the world, and talented enough to do it."

Microsoft's Bill Gates' statement describes Steve Jobs as a colleague, competitor and friend: "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 honour."

The CEO of Pancreatic Cancer UK says the charity is "deeply saddened" by Steve Jobs' death.

Apple's website front page has been cleared of gadgets to show a black and white photo of Mr Jobs. "Apple has lost a visionary and creative genius and the world has lost an amazing human being," Apple said on the site. "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."

Unlike many famous people diagnosed with cancer or other fatal illnesses, Steve Jobs revealed few details about his health after he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

That was also true when he resigned from the company in August 2011.  Mr Jobs shed little insight on his condition in this excerpt from his letter to the Apple Board of Directors:

"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.

I hereby resign as CEO of Apple. I would like to serve, if the Board sees fit, as Chairman of the Board, director and Apple employee."