Yahoo Finance Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen dies at 65
Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist, Paul Allen has died from non-Hodgkins lymphoma complications at 65 years old. He died in Seattle on Monday afternoon.
He co-founded the tech giant in 1975 with Bill Gates, but more recently devoted energy to philanthropic ventures through the Vulcan organisation which overseas Allen’s ownership of sports teams like the Seattle Seahawks as well as participation in conservation projects.
Vulcan announced Allen’s death this morning.
“Millions of people were touched by his generosity, his persistence in pursuit of a better world, and his drive to accomplish as much as he could with the time and resources at his disposal,” Vulcan CEO Bill Hilf said.
“Paul’s life was diverse and lived with gusto. It reflected his myriad interests in technology, music and the arts, biosciences and artificial intelligence, conservation and in the power of shared experience – in a stadium or a neighbourhood – to transform individual lives and whole communities.”
Allen’s sister also released a statement on behalf of the family.
“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.
“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.”
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Allen and Gates
Allen and Gates, while friends, were also considered to have a competitive relationship. However, Allen also described Gates as a partner “who could take my ideas and magnify them,” in his autobiography.
