Analog Devices' CEO Jerry Fishman dies of heart attack

Analog Devices has announced that Jerald G Fishman passed away suddenly from an apparent heart attack.

"This is a terrible loss for me personally and for all of us here at ADI," said Ray Stata, chairman, Analog Devices.

"Jerry dedicated his entire career to building ADI into a great company-one of which we all are enormously proud. Jerry's commitment to ADI occupied a central part of his life and his passion for success was infectious. Jerry not only developed enormous respect both inside and outside the company as one of our industry's greatest leaders, but also for those like me who knew him well, he engendered a sense of affection and loyalty through his candor, openness, and integrity and through his unique sense of humor," said Ray Stata.

Jerry was born in 1945 and grew up in Flushing, New York. He graduated from the City College of New York with a BSEE degree. He went on to earn an MSEE degree from Northeastern University, an MBA from Boston University, and Juris Doctor degree from Suffolk Law School.

Jerry joined Analog Devices in 1971 in product marketing. His responsibilities and his contributions expanded quickly as he rose through the ranks of the company, and in 1991 he was named president and chief operating officer. In 1996, he was named president and chief executive officer.

In accordance with the company's bylaws, ADI's president Vincent Roche has been appointed chief executive officer on an interim basis by ADI's board of directors.

"Vince, together with the leadership team Jerry put in place, know the company well and know what they have to do to continue the company's success," said Mr. Stata.