The sports world and the entire global community lost a trailblazing figure on Monday following the passing of a larger than life figure in that of Paul Allen on Monday.
Allen passed away at the age of 65 from complications due to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
— Paul Allen (@PaulGAllen) October 15, 2018
Allen’s family released a statement following his passing.
“My brother was a remarkable individual on every 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,” Allen’s sister, Jody, wrote. “Paul’s family and friends were blessed to experience his wit, warmth, his generosity and deep concern. 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.”
The co-founder of Microsoft with Bill Gates back in 1975, Allen’s charitable efforts, philanthropy and keen sense of business defined a life that was lost too soon.
In the sports world, he was known for being the owner of the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers and NFL’s Seattle Seahawks. As in his life outside of sports, Allen’s tenure was defined by moving the organization’s he led to a modern era.
Outside of the sports landscape, Allen has given north of $2 billion to help with the advancements of the sciences, technology and education. The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation has also given nearly $500 million to thousands of non-profits since its inception.
In addition to this, the late-great businessman launched the Allen Institute for Brain Science to help with the understanding of the human brain. It’s helped lead to breakthroughs in the neuroscience community.
It goes without saying that Mr. Allen will be missed. It’s also in this that the sports world paid tribute to a great man that left this life much too early.
Deeply saddened by the passing of @PaulGAllen. 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.
— Pete Carroll (@PeteCarroll) October 15, 2018
RIP Paul. You were a good man and will be missed. Rock and Roll Heaven just got a lot better https://t.co/bOSmF5Dcqi
— Mark Cuban (@mcuban) October 15, 2018
We are saddened to share that @Seahawks owner Paul Allen has passed away at age 65: https://t.co/Qcc4onRSZA pic.twitter.com/WXwpwSSTxh
— NFL (@NFL) October 15, 2018
RIP Paul Allen. Gone way too soon. Thank you so much for your many contributions to society and to the sports world pic.twitter.com/7ITQuHpAMT
— Duane Brown (@DuaneBrown76) October 15, 2018
My prayers and thoughts are with the family of Mr. Allen @PaulGAllen
— Cliff Avril (@cliffavril) October 15, 2018
Rip Mr Paul Allen 🙏🏾 I sincerely thank you for all your sacrifices and hard work. You changed countless lives and it’s greatly appreciated!
— Bradley McDougald (@BabyLead) October 15, 2018
So sad to hear about the passing of @Seahawks owner Paul Allen. In my 4 years in Sea he treated me, my teammates & the coaches w/great honor & respect. The Hawks treat their players as well or better than any organization because of him. My prayers go out to his family.
— Trent Dilfer (@DilfersDimes) October 15, 2018
Saddened and stunned by the passing of Paul Allen. A giant who was as humble and generous as they come, and so respected as a fellow NFL owner. Rest in peace, Paul.
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) October 15, 2018
Remember Paul Allen at NFL owners meetings. Richest man in the room (by far), wearing jeans and an untucked flannel shirt, sitting back studying and observing. And when he spoke — albeit rarely — it was pure wisdom.
— Andrew Brandt (@AndrewBrandt) October 15, 2018
I can't believe Paul Allen is gone less than two weeks after this. What a loss. It's always jarring when someone passes from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which is the cancer I had twice. Sometimes I take life and that time in my life for granted instead of cherishing every moment. https://t.co/6mtK3EBwRp
— Arash Markazi (@ArashMarkazi) October 15, 2018
This has left me with profound sadness. Rest In Peace, Paul Allen. pic.twitter.com/jxaUSLQ3MQ
— Rich Eisen (@richeisen) October 15, 2018
Big dog rest easy as you go home @PaulGAllen prayers for your family🙏🏾
— Marshawn Lynch (@MoneyLynch) October 15, 2018
Rest In Peace Paul Allen. Thank you for everything! You will be missed. My prayers go to the entire Allen family.
— Tyler Lockett (@TDLockett12) October 15, 2018
RIP Paul Allen pic.twitter.com/NYhkACObUk
— IG MikeDavisRB (@MikeDavisRB) October 15, 2018
RIP to the man in charge of it all, Mr. Paul Allen. I hope we sent you out with high praises with our victory yesterday in London. You with the most high now, no more pain required.
— Frank Clark (@TheRealFrankC_) October 15, 2018
https://twitter.com/AJFrancis410/status/1051964477170733056
RIP Paul Allen🙏🏽
— Rashaad Penny (@pennyhendrixx) October 15, 2018
“You look at things you enjoy in your life, but much more important is what you can do to make the world a better place.” We couldn’t have said it any better, Mr. Allen. You sure did make this world a better place.
May you rest in peace, good sir!