today surrounded by his family . '' `` 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 . '' Jobs : Visionary in a black turtleneck The family said a website will be provided for those wishing to offer tributes and memories . `` We are grateful for the support and kindness of those who share our feelings for Steve , '' the family statement said . `` We know many of you will mourn with us and we ask that you respect our privacy during our time of grief . '' Printed copies of a picture of Jobs -- posted on Apple 's website announcing his passing -- appeared Wednesday night on a marble wall outside the Apple store on New York 's Fifth Avenue , with notes written on them . `` We love you , '' one said . `` RIP . '' Outside the original Apple store in Cupertino , California , a makeshift memorial was created Wednesday , with people
-LRB- CNN -RRB- -- Apple co-founder Steve Jobs , who died Wednesday at 56 , made the world `` immeasurably better , '' the company 's board of directors said in a statement . The company also released an e-mail sent to Apple employees in which CEO Tim Cook announced Jobs ' death , saying , `` 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 . '' Cook 's comments were repeated on the Apple website . Visitors were invited to share their `` thoughts , memories and condolences '' at rememberingsteve@apple.com . There was no immediate word on any funeral services . Cook said the company is planning a `` celebration of Steve 's extraordinary life for Apple employees that will take place soon . '' Jobs ' family also released a statement through Apple , saying that Jobs `` died peacefully