Microsoft Co-Founder Paul Allen pass away after a short illness

Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen has passed away today, aged only 65, after a short illness due to complications of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

The news was announced by Vulcan Capital, his personal investment company, on behalf of his family.

Allen had revealed earlier this month that he had started treatment for a recurrence of nonHodkins Lymphoma, an illness he beat 9 years ago.

Paul Allen, a Washington State University drop-out who had a perfect SAT score, convinced Bill Gates to drop out of Harvard and start Microsoft, and only left the company when he fell seriously ill in 1982. Allen officially resigned from his position on the Microsoft board of directors in November 2000 but was asked to consult as a senior strategy advisor to the company’s executives.

In a statement, Microsoft CEO Satay Nadella noted:

Paul Allen’s contributions to our company, our industry and to our community are indispensable. 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. I have learned so much from him – his inquisitiveness, curiosity and push for high standards is something that will continue to inspire me and all of us at Microsoft.

Our hearts are with Paul’s family and loved ones.
Rest in peace.

Paul has been dedicated to philanthropic work, having donated more than $2 billion over his lifetime and $100 million just to fight Ebola, and leaves behind a fortune of more than $20 billion.

In a statement, his sister Jody said he 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. 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.”

via CNBC