Renowned Real Estate Tycoon and Investor Sam Zell Dies at 81

Sam Zell, known for reviving distressed properties, died at 81 due to illness.
Zell built Equity Office into a real estate giant before selling it for $39 billion.
Zell's high-profile purchase of Tribune Company ended in bankruptcy and controversy.
Zell gave generously to his alma maters and other higher education institutions.
Zell is survived by his third wife, two sisters, three children, and nine grandchildren.