Billionaire Ross Perot Dead at 89

DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF) – Self-made billionaire and two-time independent candidate for U.S. president, Ross Perot has died at the age of 89. Perot had been fighting a battle with leukemia.

The East Texas native founded Electronic Data Systems Corp, known as EDS, in 1962. The company made him a multi-millionaire by 1968 and he’s often referred to as the “Bill Gates of the ’60s.”

Nearly 30 years after the start of EDS, Perot started Perot Systems Corp. Forbes estimated his wealth at $4.1 billion-dollars.

The man short in stature, standing just 5’6, was known for his big heart with contributions to charities across the country and in his home state of Texas.

“We have lost a true Dallas icon. Ross Perot was a veteran, successful businessman, and philanthropist who spent his life working hard to make our city, state, and country better,” Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said. “He personified the American dream and will be sorely missed,” said Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”

Below is a statement from Dr. Linda Silver, Eugene McDermott Chief Executive Officer of the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, regarding the passing of Ross Perot:

Mr. Perot was an engineer at heart. He saw in this Museum a way to make STEM education accessible and appealing to children at the critical period when capturing their imagination and confidence establishes their trajectory into science and technology. He wanted for this city and state an educated, innovative workforce and saw the Perot Museum of Nature and Science as one expression of that. For that, we remain grateful.

Mr. Perot enlivened the Museum with his generous and caring spirit and served as an example of kindness, compassion, and innovation. His legacy as leader, independent thinker, technological trailblazer and American patriot will endure and continue to serve as inspiration in fulfilling our mission. Our heartfelt thoughts are with the entire Perot family at this time.