Story Published: Feb 3, 2012 at 3:47 PM PDT
Story Updated: Feb 3, 2012 at 5:17 PM PDT
In this Dec. 12, 2005 file photo, Steve Appleton, CEO and chairman of Micron Technology Inc., looks out through the engine compartment of his stunt jet airplane inside the hanger where he keeps several different types of aircraft in Boise, Idaho. Appleton, has died in a small plane crash Friday, Feb. 3, 2012, in Boise. He was 51. (AP Photo/Troy Maben, File)
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Idaho Gov. Butch Otter
“Idaho has lost a true champion, a great friend, and a visionary businessman. Steve was someone who understood the value as well as the cost of excellence."
"He lived life to the fullest, and while he enjoyed great success in business and in life, he never lost his intensity or his drive. Our hearts go out to his wife Dalynn and the rest of his family – including his extended family at Micron Technology and the many lives he touched throughout the world.”
Idaho Sen. Jim Risch
"The passing of my good friend Steve Appleton has shocked and saddened our entire family. He was a talented and tireless worker who made Micron one of the biggest success stories of our time. He represented the best of our free market economy."
"Steve was an outstanding business leader and very generous to so many causes. He was always quick to make a personal call when significant events affected Micron or our mutual interests. Recently, we worked together closely on patent reform legislation. We also talked often about his love of flying and what was new in that part of his life. Vicki and I send our heartfelt condolences to the Appleton family. Steve will be greatly missed."
Senator Mike Crapo, Congressman Mike Simpson and Congressman Raùl Labrador issued a joint statement
“Like the rest of Idaho, we are stunned and deeply saddened by the news of Steve Appleton’s sudden death, and we join his family and the Micron employees in mourning this huge loss,” the Members said. “Steve Appleton was to Idaho what Steve Jobs was to America. His innovation, positive attitude and forward thinking approach will be greatly missed.”
Boise Mayor Dave Bieter
"Steve Appleton was a dynamic leader who skillfully guided Micron through both prosperous and difficult times. He was a philanthropist and a great friend to Boise."
"He will be remembered as a major force in Idaho history -- a man who transformed our state's economy by redefining what is possible for Idaho business. Idaho's future will be brighter because of Steve Appleton. My heart goes out to his family and the employees of Micron around the world. "
Boise State University President Bob Kustra
“Boise State lost one of its own today. A former Bronco tennis player who never forgot his alma mater, Steve graduated in business and went on to lead one of the nation’s premier companies and enrich in so many ways the community he called home."
"He played a critical role in transforming Boise State into a research university serving the tech economy of Idaho. I valued his friendship, his generous support, and especially the advice and counsel he provided me personally as we navigated our way through the recent recession. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dalynn, his children and his family as well as his colleagues at Micron.”
University of Idaho
The University of Idaho community is deeply saddened by the loss of Micron CEO, Steve Appleton. Appleton was a champion for learning and his efforts to continuously grow, expand and advance Micron Technology, Inc. showed his passion for education.
“Steve Appleton was a real Idaho gem who, through hard work and vision, rose to lead Micron and further Idaho’s technological foundation Idaho in the process,” said Duane Nellis, president of the University of Idaho. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Dalynn, his children and his family."
As a student athlete and Boise State University graduate, Appleton saw the importance of supporting higher education in Idaho. Under Appleton’s leadership, Micron has been an outspoken force in promoting the idea that an educated community leads to economic prosperity.
Micron Foundation’s most recent donation of $1.2 million to the University of Idaho for STEM research and education is a great example of the true leadership that Micron encompasses. In addition, Micron provides students at the University of Idaho with real world experience through internships. Through Micron’s leadership, the University of Idaho is working to eliminate the critical barriers to learning in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
The University of Idaho values the partnerships it has formed with Micron under the guidance of Appleton. The state of Idaho will truly be affect by the tragic loss of a leader who worked to enhance our state’s ability to be global competitive."
CWI President Bert Glandon
“The College of Western Idaho community is somber and saddened today, as we learned of the tragic passing of Steve Appleton. Steve was not only a leader and innovator for Idaho industry over the past 30 years, but his commitment and passion to developing the Treasure Valley will have a lasting impact on the state of Idaho."
"The students, faculty, and staff at CWI have been fortunate enough to feel the wide spread reach of his generosity, thanks to continued support from one of Steve’s creations; The Micron Foundation. His guidance and commitment to providing access to advancing technical education will support students for generations to come. The entire CWI community would like to extend condolences to his wife Dalynn and the rest of his family, along with the countless Micron employees whose lives were positively touched by Steve.”
-- President Bert Glandon, College of Western Idaho
