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Teary Farewell for Gates

Microsoft CEO salutes founder, leaving after 33 years, for 'enormous opportunity'

By Nick McMaster,  Newser Staff

Posted Jun 27, 2008 4:18 PM CDT

(Newser) – Microsoft celebrated Bill Gates’ last day as a full-time employee today, the Seattle Times reports. More than 800 employees, family members and friends shared memories at the company’s corporate conference center in Redmond, Wash. CEO Steve Ballmer bid a tearful farewell to his longtime friend: "We've been given a enormous opportunity, and Bill gave us that opportunity," he told the audience.

"My life's work really is about software and working with incredible people," Gates said, also tearing up. "And I love working with smart people. I love working with Steve. I love working with all the incredible people here."

Microsoft chairman Bill Gates, right, speaks to employees as CEO Steve Ballmer looks on, during a farewell event today celebrating Gates' 33 years at Microsoft.
Microsoft chairman Bill Gates, right, speaks to employees as CEO Steve Ballmer looks on, during a farewell event today celebrating Gates' 33 years at Microsoft.   (AP Photo)
Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, left, talks to employees as chairman Bill Gates looks on during a farewell event today celebrating Gates' 33 years at Microsoft at company headquarters in Redmond, Wash.
Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, left, talks to employees as chairman Bill Gates looks on during a farewell event today celebrating Gates' 33 years at Microsoft at company headquarters in Redmond, Wash.   (AP Photo)
In this Jan. 6, 2008 file photo, Microsoft chairman Bill Gates walks off stage during his keynote address at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
In this Jan. 6, 2008 file photo, Microsoft chairman Bill Gates walks off stage during his keynote address at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.   (AP Photo)
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COMMENTS
Showing 1 of 1 comment
JoeQ
Sep 3, 2009 5:32 AM CDT
Is that a Blue Screen of Death?

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