Apple Inc. co-founder Steve Jobs peacefully passed away surrounded by his family today, Wednesday (October 5, 2011) after a very long battle against a rare form of pancreatic cancer. The 56 year-old was diagnosed back in 2003, and forced to have a liver transplant in 2009.

Apple Inc. released the following statement: “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.”

Jobs announced he could no longer continue to perform his duties as Apple’s CEO and offered his resignation on August 24, 2011. Tim Cook became the new CEO of Apple. The Jobs family released the following statement:

“In his public life, Steve was known as a visionary; in his private life, he cherished his family.”

“We are thankful to the many people who have shared their wishes and prayers during the last year of Steve’s illness; a website will be provided for those who wish to offer tributes and memories.”

“We are grateful for the support and kindness of those who share our feelings for Steve. We know many of you will mourn with us, and we ask that you respect our privacy during our time of grief.”

Steve Jobs is survived by his wife Laurene Powell-Jobs and four children.

R.I.P. Steve Jobs (1955-2011).