Billionaire Paul Allen, who founded US software giant Microsoft with Bill Gates in the 1970s, died on Monday after his latest battle with cancer. He was 65.
"My brother was a remarkable individual on every level. While most knew Paul Allen as a technologist and philanthropist, for us he was a much loved brother and uncle, and an exceptional friend," Allen's sister Jody said in a statement.
"Paul's family and friends were blessed to experience his wit, warmth, his generosity and deep concern... 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."
Allen died just two weeks after publicly revealing that the non-Hodgkin's lymphoma he fought into remission nine years ago had returned. The incurable cancer affects white blood cells.
Allen managed his business and charitable endeavours at Vulcan Inc. Vulcan, which Allen launched after leaving Microsoft in 1983, spoke of an "inexpressible loss" after his passing. "He possessed a remarkable intellect and a passion to solve some of the world's most difficult problems, with the conviction that creative thinking and new approaches could make profound and lasting impact." Forbes estimated his net worth at $20.3 billion.
Gates said he was heartbroken by the passing of "one of oldest and dearest friends". "Personal computing would not have existed without him. But Paul wasn’t content with starting one company. He channeled his intellect and compassion into a second act focused on improving people’s lives and strengthening communities in Seattle and around the world. He was fond of saying, “If it has the potential to do good, then we should do it.” That’s the kind of person he was," said Gates in his tribute to his Microsoft cofounder.
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said: "As co-founder of Microsoft, in his own quiet and persistent way, he created magical products, experiences and institutions. And in doing so, he changed the world," added the company's CEO Satya Nadella.
Allen was also active with the Allen Institutes of scientific research and owned professional US sports teams the Seattle Seahawks and Portland Trail Blazers. He was part owner of the Major League Soccer team the Seattle Sounders. Allen founded Stratolaunch, a space company that has built the world's largest plane, which hasn't flown yet but is being tested at the Mojave Air and Space Port in California.
