The co-founder of software giant Microsoft Paul Allen has passed away in Seattle at the age of 65. Along with Microsoft, Allen also founded a privately held company in 1986 called Vulcan.
It was two weeks ago that Allen tweeted and disclosed that the cancer, for which he was successfully treated nine years ago, had returned. He also mentioned that his doctors were “optimistic that I will see a good result.”
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
Vulcan released a statement that says it is “with deep sadness that we announce the death of our founder Paul G. Allen, co-founder of Microsoft and noted technologist, philanthropist, community builder, conservationist, musician and supporter of the arts.”
Allen along with his sharp wit has been known for many things, including his love of sports, his love of music, and, relatedly, expensive toys, out of which he often built collections.
He also owned the Seattle Seahawks NFL team, the Portland Trail Blazers NBA team and was part-owner of the Major League Soccer club the Seattle Sounders FC. Allen resigned from Microsoft in 1983 when he was first diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s.
In a statement released this afternoon, Bill Gates said that he was “heartbroken by the passing of one of my oldest and dearest friends, Paul Allen.”