Steve Jobs passed away on Wednesday after a long battle with cancer that started in 2003. He was 56. Jobs leaves a legacy that is unparalleled in his many contributions to society through his innovations and Apple business. He had many friends, famous and otherwise, and many famous people are openly mourning his passing. Here are a few memorable quotes released almost immediately after he passed on.
Maria Shriver weighed in on the travesty with her personal thoughts and plea for remembrance:
"My heart weeps for all who worked with Steve and who loved him, especially my friend Laurene and their children. I'm so happy that I knew him and was so blessed by his friendship. He impacted all of our lives and changed the world. I'm going to turn off my Apple computer, iPhone and iPad tonight at 8 p.m. and honor Steve with a moment of digital silence. Will you join me?"
- Maria Shriver via her Twitter account, @MariaShriver on October 5, the night of his death
President Barack Obama released an official statement on learning about the passive of Steve Jobs:
"Michelle and I are saddened to learn of the passing of Steve Jobs. Steve was among the greatest of American innovators - brave enough to think differently, bold enough to believe he could change the world, and talented enough to do it...The world has lost a visionary. And there may be no greater tribute to Steve's success than the fact that much of the world learned of his passing on a device he invented. Michelle and I send our thoughts and prayers to Steve's wife Laurene, his family, and all those who loved him."
- President Barack Obama via an official release from the White House, as reported by ABC, where you can read President Obama's full statement on the loss of Steve.
Nancy Grace, the Headline News talk show host and contestant on this year's "Dancing With the Stars," heard the new while she was about to go live. She commented:
"About to go to air & discovered news about Steve Jobs - My heart goes out to his family tonight. RIP Steve Jobs."
- Nancy Grace, as posted on her blog.
Bill Gates made an announcement on the passing of his friend:
"I'm truly saddened to learn of Steve Jobs' death. Melinda and I extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends, and to everyone Steve has touched through his work. Steve and I first met nearly 30 years ago, and have been colleagues, competitors and friends over the course of more than half our lives. The world rarely sees someone who has had the profound impact Steve has had, the effects of which will be felt for many generations to come. For those of us lucky enough to get to work with him, it's been an insanely great honor. I will miss Steve immensely. "
- Bill Gates on Steve Jobs, as reported by "The Wall Street Journal"
The author, Judy Blume, kept it short, simple and sincere, stating:
"Steve Jobs - his illness and death makes me so sad. A creative genius."
- Judy Blume, author of such books as Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret via her Twitter account, @JudyBlume
Apple itself was perhaps most profound, posting this on its website after a heartfelt announcement:
"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."
Apple, on its official website, on the passive of its strongest creative force, Steve Jobs.
