Steve Jobs, the iconic face of Apple, has died today from a rare form of pancreatic cancer that he had been battling since first being diagnosed in 2003. Jobs is credited with being the innovative mind behind one of the largest, most innovative, and most profitable consumer electronics companies in the world. Not only that, but the technologies that Jobs and his company have developed and produced have changed the economic and social landscape around the world.  From iTunes, which made online music sales standard for many consumers and helped to increase the market share of all online sales, to the iPad, which has revolutionized mobile technology, Jobs innovations have earned him the moniker of a modern “Thomas Edison”. Of course, Edison was never able to turn his inventions into a multi-billion dollar global corporation.

Jobs, who was originally diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2003, a rare form that although aggressive, it produces slow-growing neuroendocrine tumors. These tumors can secrete their own hormones that could lead to other symptoms such as stomach ulcers and skin rashes. In addition, this type of cancer often spreads to the liver. Jobs did have a liver transplant in 2009, which was deemed a success. In addition he took a prolonged medical leave in January of this year, before officially retiring in August. It’s possible that Jobs had been suffering more acute symptoms of the cancer over the last several months. It was evident during a number of his August appearances that he had lost significant weight, which is an indicator of negative treatment results. Though it’s widely known that Jobs suffered from cancer, the exact cause of his death has not been released.

An official release from present Apple CEO Tim Cook reads, "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." It’s clear that Apple will continue to thrive, even after the loss of their visionary founder. In previous years when Jobs health has been uncertain, much has been made of dipping stock prices. However, the base investment within the corporation remains strong regardless. Many of the products that come out in next few years will carry Jobs unmistakable brand and aesthetic, carrying on the legacy of this legendary mind.