Bruce Bastian, the co-founder of WordPerfect and a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, passed away on Sunday, June 16, 2024, at the age of 76. Bastian was a trailblazer in the tech industry and a passionate philanthropist dedicated to human rights causes.
Bastian’s journey began as a student at Brigham Young University (BYU), where he developed the WordPerfect software, a groundbreaking word processing program that revolutionized the tech industry. His innovative spirit and business acumen led to the widespread adoption of WordPerfect, cementing his place as a pioneer in the tech world.
Beyond his professional achievements, Bastian was deeply committed to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. He used his influence and resources to support various initiatives and organizations that promoted equality and human rights. His legacy as a champion for the LGBTQ+ community is remembered by many.
Bastian’s passing was confirmed by Troy Williams, the executive director of Equality Utah, who praised Bastian for his unwavering support and significant contributions to the cause.