PHOTO COURTESY OF KPTV.COM

SEATTLE (AP) – Reaction to the death of Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, who died Oct. 15:

“I am heartbroken by the passing of one of my oldest and dearest friends, Paul Allen. From our early days together at Lakeside School, through our partnership in the creation of Microsoft, to some of our joint philanthropic projects over the years, Paul was a true partner and dear friend. Personal computing would not have existed without him. But Paul wasn’t content with starting one company. He channeled his intellect and compassion into a second act focused on improving people’s lives and strengthening communities in Seattle and around the world. He was fond of saying, “If it has the potential to do good, then we should do it.” That’s the kind of person he was. Paul loved life and those around him, and we all cherished him in return. He deserved much more time, but his contributions to the world of technology and philanthropy will live on for generations to come. I will miss him tremendously.” – Bill Gates, in a statement.

“While most knew Paul Allen as a technologist and philanthropist, for us he was a much-loved brother and uncle, and an exceptional friend.” – sister Jody Allen, in a statement.

“RIP to my dear friend (and killer guitar player) Paul Allen. Your genius and generosity has and will forever be felt by mankind.”music mogul Quincy Jones, via Twitter. “Paul was a remarkable pioneer, a generous philanthropist and a special partner for us. SKG wouldn’t have been possible for us without him. Our hearts and prayers are with him and his family.”– Steven Spielberg, Jeffrey Katzenberg and David Geffen, in a statement.

“Deeply saddened by the passing of Paul Allen. I’ll miss him greatly. His gracious leadership and tremendous inspiration will never be forgotten. The world is a better place because of Paul’s passion, commitment, and selflessness. His legacy will live on forever.” – Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll, in a statement.

“We miss you. We thank you. We love you.” – Portland Trail Blazers, via Twitter.

“Big dog rest easy as you go home Paul Allen prayers for your family.” – Oakland Raiders running back and former Seattle Seahawk Marshawn Lynch, via Twitter.

“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.” – NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, in a statement.

“Our industry has lost a pioneer and our world has lost a force for good. We send our deepest condolences to Paul’s friends, the Allen family and everyone at Microsoft.” Apple CEO Tim Cook, via Twitter.

“Sad to hear of the passing of Paul Allen, who was a strong advocate for environmental protection. He and the team at Vulcan played a pivotal role in developing the Shark Conservation Fund alongside (The Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation). His legacy lives on via his incredible work as a philanthropist and investor.” – Leonardo DiCaprio, via Twitter.

“We have lost a friend and a giant. Mr. Allen, thank you for your extraordinary vision, your abundant generosity and for believing in all of us. By your example, you made us all better, kinder. May you Rest in Peace. Go Hawks!” – Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson, via Twitter.

“So sad to hear about the passing of Paul Allen. Among many other things, he was a pioneer of commercial space travel. We shared a belief that by exploring space in new ways we can improve life on Earth. All our thoughts are with his loved ones.” British billionaire Richard Branson, via Twitter.