Advanced Polymer Systems Chairman John Williford diedMonday of a heart attack, the company announced Tuesday.

Williford, 62, had joined the Redwood City, Calif., company aspresident and chief executive officer in 1987, and becamechairman in 1988. In 1990, he relinquished dailyresponsibilities as president and chief executive officer. Also onthe boards of Chiron Corp., Akorn Inc. and Dick ClarkProductions, Williford was nominated as Entrepreneur of theYear in 1992.

He was known for charisma and being "fantastic with people,"said Loretta Miller, investor relations spokeswoman of themicrosponge delivery systems company. Jack Meakem,company president and chief executive officer, added thatWilliford was creative and warm.

Williford is survived by his wife, Nancy, and children. Funeralarrangements are pending.

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