ABJ - October 6 - Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, the Apple developer and revolutionary of the technology industry, died yesterday. He was 56.

Jobs had been suffering through numerous health scares in recent years, and most recently announced his resignation as Apple CEO on August 24. In his resignation letter, Jobs stated that he could “no longer meet his duties and expectations as Apple’s CEO.”

In 2004, Jobs was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Five years later, in 2009, Jobs would undergo a liver transplant. A year and a half later, this past January, Jobs began a medical leave of absence in order to focus on his health. Former COO Tim Cook would maintain Apple’s day-to-day operations in Jobs’ absence.

On October 5, Jobs would succumb to pancreatic cancer. Apple said in a statement, “We are deeply saddened to announce that Steve Jobs passed away today. Steve's brilliance, passion and energy were the source of countless innovations that enrich and improve all of our lives. The world is immeasurably better because of Steve. His greatest love was for his wife, Laurene, and his family. Our hearts go out to them and to all who were touched by his extraordinary gifts.”

Microsoft’s Bill Gates, long-time rival to Apple, said in a statement, “Steve and I first met nearly 30 years ago, and have been colleagues, competitors and friends over the course of more than half our lives. The world rarely sees someone who has had the profound impact Steve has had, the effects of which will be felt for many generations to come.

“For those of us lucky enough to get to work with him, it’s been an insanely great honor. I will miss Steve immensely.”

Apple has made significant gains in recent years, launching the Apple iPod in 2001, the Apple MacBook in 2006, the Apple iPhone in 2007, and the Apple iPad in 2010.