Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen dies at 65

Tech pioneer and philanthropist who started Microsoft with Bill Gates has passed at the age of 65.

Paul Allen, Microsoft co-founder
Paul Allen, Microsoft co-founder

Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft, has died on Monday in Seattle, at the age of 65 as a result of further complications from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He has been battling this disease for more than three decades. He was first diagnosed in 1982, received treatment in 2009, but it returned in 2018.

Allen was one of Bill Gates’ closest friend, and together, they started Microsoft in April of 1975.

Alongside starting one of the biggest software company in the world, Paul was also investor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist who has a profound effect in technology and science. He also was owner of two professional sport teams, including NFL’s Seattle Seahawks and NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers.

Jody Allen, Paul’s sister, said on statement:

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.”

Former Microsoft CEO, Bill Gates said on Monday:

“I am heartbroken by the passing of one of my oldest and dearest friends.” “Paul was a true partner and dear friend. Personal computing would not have existed without him.”

Also, former Microsoft CEO, Steve Ballmer shared a Tweet remembering Paul:

“Paul was a truly wonderful, bright and inspiring person — and a great friend. I will miss him.”

Microsoft CEO, Satya Nadella said:

“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 as Microsoft. Our hearts are with Paul’s family and loved ones. Rest in peace.”

Other tech CEOs like Sundar Pichai from Google, Jeff Bezos from Amazon, and Tim Cook from Apple shared statements on the passing of Paul.

“We lost a great technology pioneer today – thank you Paul Allen for your immense contributions to the world through your work and your philanthropy. Thoughts are with his family and the entire Microsoft community.” — Google CEO, Sundar Pichai.

“Our industry has lost a pioneer and our world has lost a force for good. We send our deepest condolences to Paul’s friends, the Allen family and everyone at Microsoft. — Apple CEO, Tim Cook.”

Very sad to hear of Paul Allen’s passing. His passion for invention and pushing forward inspired so many. He was relentless to the end. My heart goes out to Paul’s family and friends. — Amazon CEO, Jeff Bezos.

Thank you, Paul, for all of your contributions, you will be missed.

About the author

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me.