Bruce Bastian, a pioneer in the world of personal computing and a champion for L.G.B.T.Q. causes, passed away on June 16 at the age of 76. Bastian, a founder of the WordPerfect Corporation, played a significant role in revolutionizing the way people used computers for daily tasks.
In the late 1970s, Bastian, along with Alan C. Ashton, founded the company that would become WordPerfect. Their word processor quickly became the go-to choice for new personal computer users, thanks to its user-friendly interface and free customer support line. By 1991, WordPerfect controlled 50 percent of the word processing market and was generating over $500 million in sales.
However, Bastian’s personal life took a turn when he came out as gay and renounced his Mormon faith. Despite facing backlash and feeling betrayed by his former business partner, Bastian remained committed to supporting L.G.B.T.Q. causes and advocating for equality.
After selling WordPerfect to Novell in 1994, Bastian became a philanthropist, funding arts and cultural programs in Utah and supporting organizations like the Human Rights Campaign. His contributions to the opposition efforts against Proposition 8 in California showcased his dedication to creating a better future for the L.G.B.T.Q. community.
Bastian’s journey from a successful businessman to a fearless advocate for equality serves as an inspiration to many. His legacy lives on through his work and the impact he made on both the tech industry and the L.G.B.T.Q. community.
