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Seattle Seahawks owner Paul Allen died Monday afternoon from complications of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He was 65. 49ers CEO Jed York spoke with NFL Network reporter Tom Pelissero about Allen’s passing ahead of San Francisco’s Monday night matchup at Green Bay.
Just spoke to #49ers CEO Jed York in Green Bay about the passing of #Seahawks owner Paul Allen:
“It’s very sad to lose someone so unexpectedly and so young and before their time. Paul has done a lot for the NFL and the NBA and sports in general and he’ll definitely be missed.”
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 15, 2018
Allen was a a business magnate and respected figure among the NFL community. He rose to prominence when he cofounded Microsoft with Bill Gates in 1975. Allen also invested in a handful of success financial, film, technology, aerospace, and real estate companies. He was a generous philanthropist and established several non-profit companies. Allen’s net work was estimated at more than than $20 million, ranking No. 44 on the Forbes’ list of billionaires.
He purchased the Seahawks in 1996. Under Allen, Seattle rose to prominence earlier this decade, culminating in three NFC Championships and a Super Bowl XLVII win. He also owned the Portland Trail Blazers and Seattle Sounders.
Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll released the following statement on Allen.
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