Makeshift memorial rises at Americana Apple store

As people shuffled past the Apple store at the Americana at Brand Thursday, some stopped to snap photos, others to inspect — not the latest iPhone, but a makeshift memorial in honor of the company’s late co-founder, Steve Jobs.

As Apple customers reflected on Jobs’ contributions, and how the Mac brand would be without him, it was clear his reach extended past generations and personal backgrounds.

The memorial, which included flowers, a candle, photos and cards, featured a written message next to a drawing of a crying apple, a nod to Apple’s ubiquitous logo.

“Thanks for inspiring a new generation with your innovative spirit and elegant taste,” it read.

Outside the store, some said they couldn’t believe it, others said they were overcome with sadness upon learning of Jobs’ death on Wednesday. But many said Jobs had probably prepared Apple for the inevitable and believed the company would continue to thrive in his memory.

“I’m honestly not worried, especially with the pressure they have on them to produce,” said lifelong Mac-user Sylvia Hendershott.

Beth Boller, of La Crescenta, described Jobs’ death as a “huge loss” given that Apple products have “become a huge part of our lives.”

“He was a true genius,” she said.

For Breanna Gonzales, it was a time for reflection. She brought her 2-year-old son, Jayden, who put a clutch of sunflowers near the memorial.

“It just felt right,” she said.