Steve Jobs has died. The Apple CEO and visionary passed away today after a long battle with cancer. A full-page black and white photograph of Jobs wearing his trademark black turtleneck along with the following statement is front-and-center on Apple’s homepage:

“Apple has lost a visionary and creative genius, and the world has lost an amazing human being.  Those of us who have been fortunate enough to know and work with Steve have lost a dear friend and inspiring mentor.  Steve leaves behind a company that only he could have built, and his spirit will forever be the foundation of Apple. “

While some may not know his name, chances are good you know his products. Credited with revolutionizing the computer industry, the charismatic pioneer created one of the world’s most important technology companies and forever changed the world of mobile technology with his revolutionary products including the iPod, iPhone and iPad.

Steven Jobs

Steven Paul Jobs was born in 1955 to two graduate students who gave him up for adoption.  Adopted by Clara and Paul Jobs, he was raised in California.  The young Jobs spent a lot of time working on electronics with his dad.   He enrolled and then dropped out of Reed College.

Jobs and friend, Stephen Wozniak, launched Apple Computer in the family garage in 1976 and the rest, as they say, is history.   His technologies have transformed the way millions of people interact, communicate and live. As of last month, his estimated net worth was $7 billion.

But due to failing health, Jobs resigned as CEO of Apple in August.  Steve Jobs passed away October 5, 2011, but his legacy lives on.  He is survived by his wife, Laurene, and four children.  He was 56.

Apple is encouraging people to send condolences, thoughts and memories to the company via email.

Image courtesy of Matthew Yohe