Former Apple CEO Steve Jobs died on Wednesday, the company announced shortly after 4:30 PM. Steve Jobs announced he was suffering from a rare form of pancreatic cancer in 2004 and battled severe health problems until his death. Jobs was only 56.
Steve Jobs founded Apple in 1976 with Steve Wozniak, Ronald Wayne and A.C. Markkula Jr when he was just 21. Jobs was forced to take several long absences from Apple for treatment after he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He underwent surgery for the cancer in 2004 and received a liver transplant in 2009. Earlier this year, Jobs took an indefinite leave of absence from Apple to focus on his health, before finally deciding to step down entirely.
Known as the ‘father’ of Macintosh, Jobs finally announced on August 24th that he would be resigning as CEO of Apple. “I have always said that if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple’s C.E.O., I would be the first to let you know,â€Â Jobs said in a letter released by the company. “Unfortunately, that day has come.â€
According to a press statement released by his family, Jobs “died peacefully” surrounded by his loved ones. “We are thankful to the many people who have shared their wishes and prayers during the last year of Steve’s illness,” his family said in the statement.  “a website will be provided for those who wish to offer tributes and memories.”
The statement concludes, “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.”
“We are deeply saddened to announce that Steve Jobs passed away today,” Apple announced in a press statement. “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.”