After a long battle with pancreatic cancer, Steve Jobs has passed. And in his death, the world has lost one of their greatest visionaries. Many of you received the news of his death on devices that he shepherded, perhaps the greatest testament to his impact on 20th century technology. His genius transformed Apple into a globally recognized symbol of innovation.

The man was a pioneer, and it is staggering to think how different the world could be right now without his brilliant legacy. The iPod, iPhone, and iPad have completely revolutionized technology and changed the way we listen to music, talk on the phone and browse the internet. After cofounding Apple in 1976, Jobs continually produced advancements in technology, nearly all of which were so far ahead of their time that the competition is still trying to catch up. Apple has nearly monopolized the market through their intuitive inventions, creating brilliant applications and ideas that were easy to use and learn by the general public. Jobs also paved the way for how the public interfaces with online content, setting the business standard for music, film, and applications when many other companies were frozen by the advent the digital market. Jobs also served as the CEO of the cinematic juggernaut that is Pixar, helping pave the way for computer-animated entertainment.

What’s astonishing is his almost zen-like approach to business and life. Jobs’ rise to power was not one of cold and calculated moves, backstabs, or betrayals; he grew rich, yes, but along with his stock investors and allies. He made sure his partners reaped the benefits, which is such a stark dichotomy from today’s typical American CEO. At one point, he even worked for a contract of a dollar, a nearly philanthropic approach that stunned competitors and the public alike. In a time where it seems like everyone, from greedy businessmen to petulant professional sports stars, are trading in dignity for the biggest paycheck, Jobs set the standard for integrity in the workplace, changing the world with his vision for both technology and life.

The legend of Steve Jobs is an epic story that will be told for decades and likely centuries to come. Steve Jobs was a genius, an innovator, an inventor. Most importantly, he was an exceptional human being. He will be missed.