It has been a sad day for the tech world, as co-founder of computer giant Microsoft, Paul Allen, died of complications from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
He was Sixty-Five.
Allen is credited – along with co-founder Bill Gates – with changing the computer scene with countless innovations via Microsoft Incorporated.
Having successfully fought-off his ailment in 1983 and 2009, Allen revealed that he had resumed treatment earlier this month.
His death was announced via a tweet message by his company Vulcan Inc.
It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of @PaulGAllen, our founder and noted technologist, philanthropist, community builder, conservationist, musician and supporter of the arts. All of us who worked with Paul feel an inexpressible loss today. https://t.co/OMLZ7ivvSD pic.twitter.com/Bfa8kK6Q8e
— Vulcan Inc. (@VulcanInc) October 15, 2018
What Bill Gates said
No other person could have captured the mood of the tech community better than Bill Gates.
He and Allen principally are the reason Microsoft remains a pioneering entity in science and tech innovation.
“I am heartbroken by the passing of one of my oldest and dearest friends, Paul Allen. From our early days together at Lakeside School, through our partnership in the creation of Microsoft, to some of our joint philanthropic projects over the years, Paul was a true partner and dear friend. Personal computing would not have existed without him.
“But Paul wasn’t content with starting one company. He channeled his intellect and compassion into a second act focused on improving people’s lives and strengthening communities in Seattle and around the world. He was fond of saying, “If it has the potential to do good, then we should do it.” That’s the kind of person he was,” he said.
“Paul loved life and those around him, and we all cherished him in return. He deserved much more time, but his contributions to the world of technology and philanthropy will live on for generations to come. I will miss him tremendously.”
Allen was worth more than $20 billion, making him 44th on Forbes’ 2018 list of billionaires.
He is credited with investing massively in artificial intelligence and new frontier technologies
Outside the techie environment, Allen owned NFL Seattle Seahawks and NBA Portland Trailblazers; he was also an avid lover of rock music.
He’ll be surely missed.