Xilinx Founder Dies

SAN JOSE, Calif. -- Xilinx, Inc. (Nasdaq: XLNX - News) today sadly announced the passing of Bernard (Bernie) V. Vonderschmitt, Xilinx co-founder, Chairman Emeritus and former Chairman of the Board. Vonderschmitt died earlier today in his hometown of Jasper, Indiana.

"This is a very sad day for Xilinx and the entire semiconductor industry. So much of the success Xilinx enjoys today can be attributed to Bernie's foresight, business acumen and ingenuity," said Wim Roelandts, Xilinx Chairman and CEO. "Over the years I have been so grateful for his guidance, his caring for every employee, and his humble approach. He will truly be missed."

Vonderschmitt began his illustrious career as an electrical engineer in the semiconductor industry at RCA, where he received the David Sarnoff award in recognition for his contribution to the invention of the color television. In 1984, at the age of 60, he co-founded Xilinx. His strategic vision and humanistic leadership style helped Xilinx become the world's largest programmable logic supplier with over $1 billion in sales. At Xilinx Vonderschmitt helped to pioneer the field of programmable logic, a multi-billion dollar industry today. He is also credited with pioneering the fabless semiconductor model adopted by many leading semiconductor companies around the world. Known throughout the industry for his accomplishments, Vonderschmitt was the recipient of numerous industry awards including the Fabless Semiconductor Association (FSA) 2002 Dr. Morris Chang Exemplary Leadership Award.

Xilinx Inc.