Tragedy has struck the worlds of pro sports, technology and beyond as Paul Allen has died. Here’s the Oregonian reporting:
Paul Allen, longtime owner of the Portland Trail Blazers and one of the world’s richest men, died Monday in Seattle from complications from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He was 65.
Allen, born in Seattle in 1953, was a fixture in the Northwest for most of his life. He co-founded Microsoft with childhood friend Bill Gates and built the startup computer company into one of the world’s most successful corporations, turning Allen into a billionaire.
Forbes values his fortune at $20.3 billion, making him the world’s 21st richest person. The magazine tallies his total philanthropic contributions at $2 billion.
Allen used his considerable wealth in a variety of ways over the years, investing in a host of companies, donating to countless charities and accumulating pricey toys, and the last three decades of life were defined by his passions: sports, the arts and science. After a life-threatening bout with Hodgkin’s disease, Allen resigned from Microsoft in 1983. And although he retained a significant chunk of the company’s stock, Allen shifted his priorities to his passions.
STATEMENT FROM ADAM SILVER
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released the following statement today regarding the passing of Portland Trail Blazers owner Paul Allen:
“Paul Allen was the ultimate trail blazer – in business, philanthropy and in sports. As one of the longest-tenured owners in the NBA, Paul brought a sense of discovery and vision to every league matter large and small. He was generous with his time on committee work, and his expertise helped lay the foundation for the league’s growth internationally and our embrace of new technologies. He was a valued voice who challenged assumptions and conventional wisdom and one we will deeply miss as we start a new season without him. Our condolences go to his family, friends and the entire Trail Blazers organization.”
STATEMENT FROM PAUL ALLEN’S FAMILY
This is a time of profound loss for Mr. Allen’s family. On their behalf, Paul’s sister, Ms. Jody Allen, has released the following 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.
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.”
STATEMENT FROM BLAZERS PRESIDENT & CEO CHRIS McGOWAN
“I was fortunate to work with Paul Allen for the last six years, get to know him and witness all the passion he put into making the world a better place. He was an amazing mentor and a great leader for our organization. He truly loved the Trail Blazers franchise, our city, our players, coaches and employees. We are deeply saddened by his loss and the thoughts of Rip City are with his family.”
STATEMENT FROM THE LAKERS
The following statement was issued by CEO and Controlling Owner Jeanie Buss on behalf of the Lakers organization:
“We are terribly saddened by the news of the passing of Paul Allen. He was dedicated to the city of Portland and his Trail Blazers teams reflected his commitment to hard work and excellence. Our condolences go out to his family, friends, colleagues and the Trail Blazers fans.”
