The founder of Zappos and the author of Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose, Mr. Tony Hsieh, has died at the age of 46 on Friday, November 27th. Hsieh's family lawyer reported that he died due to complications from injuries sustained in a house fire.
Here is a statement from DTP Companies (Mr. Hsieh's side venture) about the tragic news:
“Tony’s kindness and generosity touched the lives of everyone around him, and forever brightened the world, Delivering happiness was always his mantra, so instead of mourning his transition, we ask you to join us in celebrating his life. On behalf of all DTP Companies employees and staff, we would like to express our deepest condolences to Tony’s family and friends who have all lost Tony as a cherished loved one, visionary and friend. Tony was highly regarded by all of his fellow friends and colleagues in the tight-knit family at DTP Companies, so this heartbreaking tragedy is one that affects many involved.”
Hsieh's family confirmed the tragedy in a text message to friends.
Kedar Deshpande, Zappos' new CEO, told the company Friday night in an internal memo. that the online shoe seller "lost our inspiring former leader" and that "many of you have also lost a mentor and a friend."
Mr. Deshpande wrote in the email "Tony played such an integral part in helping create the thriving Zappos business we have today, along with his passion for helping to support and drive our company culture,” Deshpande wrote. He then stated that the company would be exploring ways to celebrate Hsieh’s life in the coming days.
Carolyn Goodman, Las Vegas Mayor, called his death "a tragic loss."
“Tony meant so much to Las Vegas, always dreaming, working to inspire and leading others to create a new vision for tomorrow. Our prayers and sympathies to his family."
Gov. Steve Sisolak tweeted Friday night that Hsieh “played a pivotal role in helping transform” downtown Las Vegas.
Myron Martin, president and CEO of The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, said Hsieh “was a friend and a loyal supporter” of the downtown venue. Hsieh donated $1 million to The Smith Center and bought all of the tickets in his box and gave them to his employees, Martin said. “I will miss his ‘all-hands’ staff meetings in Reynolds Hall and the epic after-parties in Symphony Park,” Martin said. “Mostly, I will miss his kindness.”
Source material: reviewjournal.com