Apple, Google, Amazon and Facebook’s ‘Coach’ passes away at 75

Bill Campbell was known to have served as a member of both Apple and Google’s board at the same time

Bill Campbell was known to have served as a member of both Apple and Google’s board at the same time (Twitter)

There have been very few individuals through history who were invaluable to both Google and Apple. Bill Campbell, or as they lovingly called him, "The Coach" easily makes it to that list. He passed away on Monday.

Bill Campbell believed in Apple when few people did. We'll miss his wisdom,friendship,humor & his love for life. RIP pic.twitter.com/HA7hYgGxNM

— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) April 18, 2016

The Silicone Valley guru was known to have served as a member of both Apple and Google's board at the same time. While serving as advisor to Steve Jobs, Larry Page and Sergey Brin must have been a tiring task, even Jeff Bezos and Mark Zuckerberg have sought Campbell's expertise.

Although not widely known outside Silicon Valley, Campbell played a pivotal role in shaping the direction of both Apple and Google, two of the world's most powerful companies. He also was consulted by other technology companies and entrepreneurs trying to manage the rapid growth triggered by their innovations.

You counseled so many. Your wisdom and warmth will be remembered. Rest in peace Bill Campbell.

— Jeff Bezos (@JeffBezos) April 18, 2016

Recode's Kara Swisher writes, "It is a big loss for Silicon Valley, given the impact a man who said he did not even know how to do HTML had by virtue of wisdom alone."

Sad day. Great loss. Silicon Valley's legendary 'Coach' Bill Campbell has died. https://t.co/FLkXDuYFCH via @karaswisher

— Walt Mossberg (@waltmossberg) April 18, 2016

Campbell also headed the marketing and software development divisions at Apple before moving to Inuit when it parted ways with Apple.

Heartwarming to see tributes pour in for #BillCampbell . He had a big impact on my life as he did with so many others. RIP Coach Bill.

— sundarpichai (@sundarpichai) April 19, 2016

Before moving to Silicon Valley in the 1980s, Campbell spent six seasons as the head coach of Columbia University's football team. He remained known as "Coach" after he became an influential technology-industry adviser. Later he served as the member of their board till his passing.

With Inputs from AP.