When the news of the death of Steve Jobs hit the airwaves earlier this week, we lost more than a man on a mission. We lost a man with initiative.
He was the “idea” man behind Apple Computers; went from making them in a garage to a multi-billion dollar company that rivals any U.S. based business — including oil companies. Apple’s reach is so huge, just a mere mention of a new product stirs headline news across the world. That’s a publicity dream.
In the same week that some pundits were concerned that the latest iPhone was a “4S” over a “5″, the verbal darts flew in — and then in typical Steve-style — he took that headline away.
Mr. Jobs kept his personal life to himself. Did you know he was adopted? He met his biological sister in later years. His father — his real dad — tried to reach out but Steve didn’t make contact. He was married and had four kids.
He was a self-made millionaire — and a self-made billionaire. He made headlines at work, not at home. He remained a private man until his death.
For radio, he changed the music industry. Downloads are more popular than CDs. Music can be bought per track. He made the term “podcast”. He changed the industry several times, the latest with a tablet computer that is becoming the norm on no matter what platform.
Much has been, and will be written about his contributions. His business style is legendary, but his convictions of a better product was part of his focus. He stumbled seldom; he exceeded expectations every day.
We owe a debt of gratitude to Steve Jobs. In his short time on earth, his legacy will far be reaching even in his death. Thank you, we hardly knew you; but he knew us, the consumer.
