Update: Apple has a video highlighting some of Mr. Jobs's best moments featured on the front page of Apple.com. Following the video is a written message from current Apple CEO Tim Cook.
One year ago today — October 5, 2011 — Apple co-founder and former CEO Steve Jobs passed away at the age of 56.
Mr. Jobs had long been ill, facing pancreatic cancer and its complications for several years. After taking a medical leave of absence from the company in early 2011, he officially resigned his position as CEO in August, naming then COO Tim Cook as his successor. Mr. Jobs remained Chairman of the company’s Board until his death several weeks later.
Always a controversial figure, Mr. Jobs played vital roles in creating and transforming technologies related to computing, communication, music, and animation. On the day of his death, Apple posted the following message on its website, informing the world of the news and honoring the man who helped found the company and would later return to save it:
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.
As we remember a true visionary, and enjoy so many of the products and services he helped create, we also send our thoughts and wishes to the Jobs family, from which he was taken far too soon.
TMO will have additional coverage throughout the day as the technology and entertainment communities pay homage to Mr. Jobs and his legacy, and examine the path Apple has taken since his departure.