Former Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh passes away, tributes poured in

At the age of 46 years old, the former CEO of Zappos, Tony Hsieh, passed away last month.

Media reports cited a statement from DTP Companies, a firm he founded, confirming the passing of Hsieh on November 27, Friday.

“Tony’s kindness and generosity touched the lives of everyone around him, and forever brightened the world,” DTP Companies said.

“Delivering happiness was always his mantra, so instead of mourning his transition, we ask you to join us in celebrating his life,” it added.

It was reported that Hsieh died from complications caused by smoke inhalation in a house fire in Connecticut last month and that his death was ruled as an accident. The cause of the fire, however, is reportedly still being investigated.

Hsieh retired from his position in Zappos last August after two decades of being with the Las Vegas-based company.

Many have paid tributes to Hsieh, including Zappos CEO Kedar Deshpande who recognized Hsieh’s contribution to the company’s success.

It is with very heavy hearts that we are sharing some very sad news, as we have learned that Tony passed away earlier today (11-27-20). The world has lost a tremendous visionary and an incredible human being. We recognize that…https://t.co/RUMNOFrItZ pic.twitter.com/NSAFGW8p4L

— Zappos.com (@Zappos) November 28, 2020

“Tony played such an integral part in helping create the thriving Zappos business we have today, along with his passion for helping to support and drive our company culture,” he said.

“Tony’s kindness and generosity touched the lives of everyone around him, as his mantra was of ‘Delivering Happiness’ to others. His spirit will forever be a part of Zappos, and we will continue to honor his memory by dedicating ourselves to continuing the work he was so passionate about,” he added.

Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak also remembered Hsieh as someone who had a “pivotal role in helping transform Downton Las Vegas,” while Ivanka Trump remembered him as her “close friend” who was “always challenging me to reject conformity and follow my heart.”

https://twitter.com/GovSisolak/status/1332557691810562048

Celebrating the life while mourning the loss of my dear friend Tony Hsieh. Tony was a deeply original thinker always challenging me to reject conformity & follow my heart. Tony was driven by the mission of delivering happiness & brought joy to all who knew him. Rest In Peace Tony pic.twitter.com/Nd5o6U7wV9

— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) November 28, 2020

For his part, Las Vegas Councilman Cedric Crear said in a tweet that he was “very saddened” to learn about the passing of Hsieh who he described as a “creative and innovative person who positively helped change the landscape of Downtown Las Vegas.”

Very saddened to hear of the passing of Tony Hsieh. Such a creative & innovative person who positively helped change the landscape of Downtown Las Vegas. We have been working on some cool projects for Downtown. God speed to his family, coworkers and our community. #TonyHsieh

— Councilman Cedric Crear (@CouncilmanCrear) November 28, 2020