This was not something completely unexpected, but still a shock. As is being reported virtually everywhere, Steve Jobs was kind of like the Thomas Edison of the computer age and his vision will be missed. Stop and think for a moment about how Apple–the company that he helped create and spur on to greatness–has radically changed entire industries over the past few years and how we all think about and interact with technology. Quite mind-boggling, really…

I have complete faith that Apple will continue to be the innovative company it has grown to be going into the future. With Apple’s new CEO, Tim Cook, and his team announcing the new iPhone 4S on Tuesday and then having Steve pass away quietly on Wednesday, I can’t think of a more dramatic or definitive “passing of the torch”. I look forward to a continuing bright future for Apple and many more thrilling moments that will change my life for the better. But as I pre-order my new iPhone 4S tomorrow morning–and no doubt every time I use it going forward–it will be with a slight tinge of melancholy.

I actually heard Steve Jobs speak at more than one Macworld Expo Keynote over the years and it was always a thrill. I’m saddened that he passed away at the relatively young age of 56–that’s only 8 years older than I am. Kinda makes me realize just how mortal we all are. My condolences to his family and friends. Thank you, Steve, for helping to actually change the world for all of us.

May you rest in peace…