Steve Appleton, the 51 year old CEO of Micron Technology died on Friday morning at approximately 08:56 AM MST when his experimental fixed wing single engine Lancair aircraft crashed after its second attempt to take-off, Steve Appleton was the only person on-board the aircraft.Born and raised in California, Appleton was no stranger to danger and in 2004 sustained a punctured lung, head injuries, ruptured disk and broken bones while piloting an Extra 300 aircraft, during his life he participated in a number of sports, including professional tennis. His hobbies included scuba diving, surfing, wakeboarding, motorcycling and, more recently, off-road car racing. His aviation background included multiple ratings and professional performances at air shows in both propeller and jet-powered aircraft. He also had a black belt in taekwondo.
As a lifelong aviation enthusiast and keen stunt pilot, the Corporate governance had previous raised questions about if Appleton, as a high profile CEO should be engaging in such risky hobbies.
A statement on the Micron website said "We are deeply saddened to announce that Steve Appleton, Micron Chairman and CEO, passed away this morning in a small plane accident in Boise. He was 51. Our hearts go out to his wife, Dalynn, his children and his family during this tragic time. Steve's passion and energy left an indelible mark on Micron, the Idaho community and the technology industry at large."
In a statement, Governor Clement Leroy "Butch" Otter of Idaho said "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".
In his career at aged just 34, Steve Appleton was named the third youngest CEO in the Fortune 500 list.
We send out our best to Steve's family, friends and co-workers.
