His sister, Jody, released a statement where she remembered who he was on a personal level. “While most knew Paul Allen as a technologist and philanthropist, for us he was a much-loved brother and uncle, and an exceptional friend. Paul’s family and friends were blessed to experience his wit, warmth, his generosity and deep concern,” she said. “For all the demands on his schedule, there was always time for family and friends. At this time of loss and grief for us – and so many others – we are profoundly grateful for the care and concern he demonstrated every day.”
Allen founded Microsoft in 1975 with fellow college dropout Bill Gates. In 1982, Allen was diagnosed with Stage 1 Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The following year, he resigned after threatening to leave numerous times before getting rebuffed by Gates. However, he was voted to be kept onboard as vice president. Allen officially left as a member on the company's board of directors in November of 2000.
In 1986, Allen founded Vulcan Inc. to oversee a variety of interests, such as real estate, philanthropy, and sports. In 2014, Vulcan Real Estate plunked down $5.92 million for Yesler Terrace, a 30-acre site in downtown Seattle. Vulcan Capital has invested, publicly and privately, into a number of companies. Forbesranks Allen as being the 44th richest person in the world with a net worth of over $20 billion.
In addition to owning the Seattle Seahawks and the Portland Trail Blazers, Allen's investment in the teams extends to their home stadiums. He helped in the development of the Moda Center in Portland, which he went on to purchase in 2007. He also contributed $130 million to help build CenturyLink Field in Seattle.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released the following statement today regarding the passing of Portland Trail Blazers owner Paul Allen: pic.twitter.com/cXHQiUqnjQ
Paul Allen's immeasurable impact on Seattle, the Pacific Northwest and the world will not be forgotten.
May he Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/P5AVPDMFy7
Rest In Peace, Paul Allen. pic.twitter.com/l03ZfAZmyh