MathWorks co-founder and MATLAB pioneer Cleve Moler passed away on May 20, 2026, at 86. Surrounded by family, his death marks the end of a career that reshaped numerical computing. Moler, a mathematician and computer scientist, created the first MATLAB version while at MathWorks, transforming how engineers and scientists solve complex problems through code. His work made advanced algorithms accessible, blending theory with practical tools that remain foundational today.

Moler’s legacy spans decades of academic and industrial contributions. At the University of Michigan, Stanford, and New Mexico, he co-developed LINPACK and EISPACK, Fortran libraries critical for matrix computations. These tools underpinned early numerical research before MATLAB simplified complex math for broader use. He authored textbooks like *Numerical Computing with MATLAB* and online guides, democratizing access to computational methods. His 1972 paper on matrix exponentials remains a teaching staple, illustrating his knack for bridging theory and application.

Moler’s impact extends beyond tools. His election to the National Academy of Sciences and National Academy of Engineering highlights his role in advancing numerical computing’s theory and practice. By fostering collaboration between academia and industry, he inspired a generation of developers. MathWorks’ tools now power industries from aerospace to healthcare, a testament to his vision of making computation both reliable and user-friendly. His passing leaves a void in a field he helped define, but his work continues to shape how we approach mathematical challenges.