Photo: Splash News

Steve Jobs' death certificate has revealed that the former Apple CEO died of respiratory arrest that resulted from the spread of his pancreatic cancer.

The 56-year-old passed away at his Palo Alto, California, home on October 5, and was buried last Friday (Oct 7).

His death certificate, which is available to the public via the Santa Clara County Public Health Department, confirmed Jobs had a metastatic pancreas neuroendocrine tumour for five years.

The co-founder of one of the world's most iconic brands announced he was suffering from pancreatic cancer in 2004, and underwent a liver transplant five years later.

He took a leave of absence from Apple in January for medical reasons, and later resigned as the company's CEO, passing on the job to Tim Cook.

Apple launched its new iPhone, the 4S, the day before Jobs lost his battle with his illness.

Apple staff will be holding a memorial service to celebrate Jobs' life on October 12 at the company's Cupertino campus.

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