Dorothy McEwen Kildall

Dorothy McEwen Kildall, often known as Dorothy McEwen,^[1] (1943–2005) was an American microcomputer industry pioneer. In 1974, she co-founded Digital Research, the company that developed the first computer language, the first compiler and the first mainstream operating system for microcomputers.

Dorothy McEwen Kildall
Born	Dorothy Gene McEwen March 3, 1943 (1943-03-03) Seattle, Washington, US
Died	January 31, 2005(2005-01-31) (aged 61) Carmel Valley, California, US
Occupation	microcomputer industry pioneer

Early years and education

Dorothy McEwen was born on 3 March 1943 in Seattle, Washington, USA. She was the daughter of Marion Strout and Gene McEwen.

After high school, she attended the University of Washington. After a few years, she abandoned studies and for the next several years, she worked to support her husband as he went to the same university.

Professional career

McEwen Kildall cofounded Digital Research, managing the company's marketing and daily operations. In 1980, she was involved in IBM's unsuccessful attempt to license CP/M for the IBM Personal Computer.^[2][3]

Personal life

McEwen married her high school mate Gary Kildall. In 1969, the couple moved to the Monterey Peninsula and she gave birth to her son Scott Kildall in 1969 and her daughter Kristin Kildall.^[4]

McEwen died in Carmel Valley on January 31, 2005, from brain cancer.^[5]

See also

• Gary Kildall
• Scott Kildall
• Digital Research
• CP/M
• Carmel Valley Village, California