Apple co-founder Steve Jobs "died peacefully surrounded by his family" yesterday at age 56 from pancreatic cancer. "Apple has lost a visionary and creative genius, and the world has lost an amazing human being," Apple wrote on their website. "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."
Steve was the mastermind behind the iPhone, iPad, iPod, iTunes, Mac computers, and even created Pixar Animation Studios. (Pixar makes the Toy Story movies!) He stepped down from his position as Apple's CEO on August 24, 2011, which made many speculate that his health was taking a turn for the worse. "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," Steve wrote in his letter of resignation. "Unfortunately, that day has come."
When the news of Steve's death hit Hollywood, the stars came out in record numbers to Tweet their tributes:
Demi Lovato: "So sad to hear about Steve Jobs.. A brilliant man. RIP"
Joe Jonas: "R.I.P. Steve Jobs. Sad to hear. All the best to his family."
Taylor Swift: I never met Steve Jobs, but I always wanted to. What a tragic loss. I can't believe it. About to call my family and tell them I love them.
Nicki Minaj: "An innovator. Contributed so much to this generation & beyond. RIP Steve Jobs."
Kim Kardashian: "Wow Steve Jobs died! He was a brilliant man!"
Lady Gaga: "From his own invention I open my browser to it's homepage. Today it took my breath away. #ThankYouSteve. Going to eat Apples all day."
Daren Criss: "Thank you, Mr. Jobs, for making our world INFINITELY cooler."
Ian Somerhalder: "My heart and gratitude go out,like so many of us,to Steve Jobs and his family.You Sir are one of the greatest minds the world will ever see"
Ashton Kutcher: "We have all surfed on the wake of Steve Jobs ship. Now we must learn to sail, but we will never forget our skipper."
Leave your kind thoughts for Steve Jobs' friends and family below.
Photo: Courtesy of apple.com
