Shortly after stepping down as CEO of Apple, Steve Jobs passed away on October 5 at the age of 56. Newly appointed CEO Tim Cook released this statement to Apple employees:

Team,

I have some very sad news to share with all of you. Steve passed away earlier today.

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 an inspiring mentor. Steve leaves behind a company that only he could have built, and his spirit will forever be the foundation of Apple.

We are planning a celebration of Steve’s extraordinary life for Apple employees that will take place soon. If you would like to share your thoughts, memories and condolences in the interim, you can simply email rememberingsteve@apple.com.

No words can adequately express our sadness at Steve’s death or our gratitude for the opportunity to work with him. We will honor his memory by dedicating ourselves to continuing the work he loved so much.

Tim

The company has signified the passing of Steve at www.apple.com by stripping the homepage of all products and replacing it with an enlarged picture of the innovative leader, his name, and the years 1955-2011. Clicking this image brings you to a new portal www.apple.com/stevejobs that contains a part of Cook’s message and a way to share your thoughts, memories, and condolences with the company and Steve’s family.

Rest in peace, Steve. Thanks for inspiring to think different and transforming the world into a better place. Your contribution to society will reign for all time.