Former Apple CEO Steve Jobs Dead At 56
CUPERTINO (CBS) — Apple reports former co-founder, chairman, and CEO Steve Jobs is dead.
Jobs stepped down from his leadership role earlier this year amid reports of his failing health.
In the late 70s, Jobs (with co-founders Steve Wozniak and Mike Markkula) designed and marketed the Apple II series. The product was an immediate hit.
After a power shift in the mid 80s, Jobs quit the company and founded a computer development platform company called NeXT.
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Apple ended up buying up the successful NeXT bringing Jobs back into the fold.
The cause of death was not disclosed, but in 2004 he beat pancreatic cancer. And in 2009 he had to undergo a liver transplant.
A college dropout, Jobs became one of the world's wealthiest and most well-known men.
In his August 24, 2011 resignation, he recommended that Tom Cook be named as his successor.
In a statement Apple wrote: "Apple has lost a visionary and creative genius, and the world has lost an amazing human being. 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."
They added, "If you would like to share your thoughts, memories, and condolences, please email rememberingsteve@apple.com."
