On the 15th of October 2018, Paul Allen passed away in Seattle at 65 years old after complications from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma; the third time he had battled cancer in his lifetime.
Paul Allen pictured in 2014- Credit Courtesy of Vulcan Inc – Photo by Beatrice de Gea
The co-founder of Microsoft was well-known for his philanthropic nature and had pledged more than $2 billion USD to charitable causes across the world in fields including education, healthcare, wildlife conservation and community services, particularly in his home city of Seattle.
Paul Allen with Bill Gates in front of a teletype machine at the Lakeside School in 1970. Courtesy Lakeside School
“When I think about Paul, I remember a passionate man who held his family and friends dear. I also remember a brilliant technologist and philanthropist who wanted to accomplish great things, and did.” – Bill Gates
Underwater research and exploration was one particular field which received Paul Allen’s interest, and he commissioned the 126m/414ft mega yacht OCTOPUS from Lurssen which was launched in 2003. Featuring exterior styling from Espen Oeino and interiors by Johnathan Quinn Barnett, M/Y OCTOPUS remains one of the world’s largest luxury yachts, providing a wealth of onboard amenities while also conducting research and expeditions that have led to discoveries such as the legendary WWII Japanese battleship MUSASHI.
Paul Allen waves to the 12s during the Super Bowl parade and rally at Seattle’s CenturyLink Field in February 2014. Credit Courtesy of Vulcan Inc.
The 76m/250ft research vessel PETREL also saw new life after she was extensively converted from a pipeline inspection vessel to oceanographic exploration, discovering the WWII warships ARTIGLIERE and INDIANAPOLIS in March 2017 and November 2017 respectively.
Paul Allen was an accomplished musician. Seen here playing the guitar
Paul Allen‘s impact will continue to live on through Vulcan Inc., which was co-founded with his sister Jody Allen in 1988. She describes his personality and positive influence on those around him:
“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.
Luxury mega yacht OCTOPUS – Photo credit Lurssen Yachts
“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.”
