It was a dark Monday as co-founder of Microsoft, chairman of Vulcan Inc., and noted philanthropist investor Paul Allen passed away at the age of 65. Allen’s death was reportedly due to severe issues caused by non-Hodgkin’s Lymphona. He passed on October 15, 2018.
Paul Allen formed Microsoft with childhood friend Bill Gates in 1975. As the company grew, Allen ran into health issues only a few years later that would cause him to step down from such an active role in the company in 1982. He was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2009, but was treated successfully for it at the time. His current case was a resurgence of that initial diagnosis, as reported by Allen himself early in October 2018.
Some personal news: Recently, I learned the non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma I battled in 2009 has returned. I’ve begun treatment & my doctors are optimistic that I will see a good result. Appreciate the support I’ve received & count on it as I fight this challenge. https://t.co/ZolxS8lni5
— Paul Allen (@PaulGAllen) October 1, 2018
Despite his decades of health issues, Allen served in some capacity to Microsoft’s continued success and growth, acting as a member on Microsoft’s board of directors until 2000 and serving as a senior strategy consultant thereafter for a time. Eventually Allen would leave with his shares of Microsoft to begin Vulcan Inc. with his sister Jody.
With this company and his acquired wealth from Microsoft, Allen invested in a number of ventures including aerospace, filmmaking, and sports. Allen bought and owned the Portland Trail Blazers NBA team and the Seattle Seahawks NFL team, owning the latter through several Super Bowl appearances and championship win.
Jody and Allen also oversaw various films through Vulcan Productions such as Hard Candy and Far From Heaven. In an interview on CNBC, Jody spoke highly of her brother well beyond his money.
“While most knew Paul Allen as a technologist and philanthropist,” said Jody. “For us he was a much-loved brother and uncle, and an exceptional friend. Paul’s family and friends were blessed to experience his wit, warmth, his generosity and deep concern. For all the demands on his schedule, there was always time for family and friends. At this time of loss and grief for us – and so many others – we are profoundly grateful for the care and concern he demonstrated every day.”
Following his death, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella issued a heartfelt statement on behalf of the company.
Statement from Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella on the passing of Paul Allen: pic.twitter.com/1iLDLenLKz
— Microsoft (@Microsoft) October 15, 2018
It is truly unfortunate that one of the sparks of one of the most influential tech companies in the world would pass away, but Allen’s influence is far reaching throughout various fields and parts of the world. From sports, film, and gaming to science and aeronautics, the efforts of Allen to make the world better can’t be denied.
(Featured image by Kevin Lisota/GeekWire)
