Steve Appleton, CEO and Chairman of Boise-based chipmaker Micron Technology Inc., died in a small plane crash on Friday. Appleton was 51.
Appleton was flying an experimental Lancair single-engine airplane, according to a report by Reuters . After reaching an altitude of roughly 200 feet, Appleteon radioed in that there was a problem with the aircraft and that he needed to turn around. Witnesses say that shortly after, Appleton’s plane stalled and nosedived. Appleton was the only one on board.
“Our hearts go out to his wife, Dalynn, his children and his family during this tragic time,” Micron’s board of directors said in a statement. “Steve’s passion and energy left an indelible mark on Micron, the Idaho community and the technology industry at large.”
Mark Durcan, President and Chief Operating OFficer at Micron, will be taking on the CEO’s responsibilities until the board is able to appoint a permanent successor to Appleton. Directors are scheduled to meet over the weekend.
Appleton was an experienced stunt pilot, having performed at several airshows throughout the years. This wasn’t his first crash Appleton was involved in; in 2004, he and his flying partner suffered scrapes and bruises after crashing a stunt airplane.
“I’m very fortunate, lucky to be able to experience the kinds of things that I do,” Appleton said in a 2004 interview. “If my life were to end tomorrow, I’ve had a full life.”
