[antiRepublicrat]

If Ballmer dies tomorrow, there will be very little net effect on the image or success of Microsoft.

I disagree. If his successor has any vision, Microsoft will enjoy much more success post-Ballmer. Ballmer has shown a very consistent lack of vision during his tenure.

[PugetSoundSoldier]

And if Steve Jobs dies tomorrow, will that be a good or bad thing for Apple?

That was my point - Apple is much more a “cult of personality” company at this stage, Microsoft has made the transition to faceless corporation like most of the DJIA 30.