Adobe co-founder John Warnock dies at 82; University of Utah mourns loss

death – Obituary News : SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, Aug. 20, 2023 (Gephardt Daily) — The technology industry mourns the loss of Adobe co-founder and University of Utah alumnus, John Warnock, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 82. Warnock’s family confirmed that he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.

Warnock, along with Charles Geschke, co-founded Adobe in 1982. The two visionaries had previously worked together at Xerox before embarking on their groundbreaking venture. The news of Warnock’s passing has sent shockwaves through the industry, with Adobe CEO Shantanu Narayen leading the tributes.

In an email sent to employees, Narayen expressed his deep sadness at the loss of Warnock, describing him as a brilliant innovator whose contributions had changed the world. Narayen acknowledged Warnock’s pivotal role in Adobe’s success, especially with the creation of PostScript, the company’s first product that revolutionized desktop publishing.

“[Warnock’s] vision and passion enabled Adobe to deliver groundbreaking innovations such as Illustrator, the ubiquitous PDF file format and Acrobat, Photoshop and Premiere Pro, defining the desktop era and unleashing creativity and opportunity for millions of people,” Narayen said.

Warnock stepped down as CEO of Adobe in 2000 but remained chairman of the board alongside Geschke until 2017. He continued to serve on Adobe’s board of directors until his passing.

Before co-founding Adobe, Warnock had a distinguished career as a principal scientist at Xerox Palo Alto Research Center. He also held key positions at Evans and Sutherland Computer Corp., Computer Sciences Corp., IBM, and his alma mater, the University of Utah. Warnock’s educational background includes a doctorate in electrical engineering (computer science), a master’s degree in mathematics, and a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and philosophy from Utah. In recognition of his contributions, he was also awarded an honorary degree in science from the University.

Throughout his illustrious career, Warnock received numerous accolades for his groundbreaking work in technology. He was honored with the National Medal of Technology and Innovation by President Barack Obama, the Computer Entrepreneur Award from the IEEE Computer Society, the American Electronics Association Medal of Achievement, and the Marconi Prize for contributions to information science and communications.

While Warnock’s technological innovations have had an immeasurable impact, it is his indomitable spirit, passion, and commitment to building a company with strong values that will be remembered by all who had the privilege of working with him, according to Narayen.

Warnock is survived by his wife, Marva, and their three children. The legacy he leaves behind in the technology industry will continue to inspire future generations of innovators and creators..