HERCULES, CA--(Marketwire - Apr 2, 2012) - Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE: [ BIO ]) and (NYSE: [ BIOB ]), a multinational manufacturer and distributor of life science research and clinical diagnostic products, today announced that David Schwartz, Bio-Rad Chairman of the Board and Co-founder, passed away on April 1. He was 88.

Mr. Schwartz served as Bio-Rad President, Chief Executive Officer, and as Chairman of the Board from the company's incorporation in 1957 until 2003, when his son, Norman Schwartz, assumed the role of President and Chief Executive Officer. He remained Chairman of the Board until he died.

Along with his wife, Alice Schwartz, Mr. Schwartz founded Bio-Rad in 1952 in Berkeley, California, shortly after they had both graduated from the University of California, Berkeley. The company was initially engaged in the development and production of specialty chemicals used in biochemical, pharmaceutical, and other life science research applications. Bio-Rad entered the field of clinical diagnostics in the 1960s with the development of its first test kit for thyroid function that was based on separation techniques and materials developed for life science research.

In the years that followed under the leadership of Mr. Schwartz, Bio-Rad continued to broaden its product lines and expand its geographical markets. Today, the company is renowned worldwide and a leader in life science research and clinical diagnostics.

About Bio-Rad
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE: [ BIO ]) and (NYSE: [ BIOB ]) has remained at the center of scientific discovery for more than 50 years, manufacturing and distributing a broad range of products for the life science research and clinical diagnostic markets. The company is renowned worldwide among hospitals, universities, major research institutions, as well as biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies for its commitment to quality and customer service. Founded in 1952, Bio-Rad is headquartered in Hercules, California, and serves more than 100,000 research and industry customers worldwide through its global network of operations. The company employs over 7,000 people globally and had revenues exceeding $2 billion in 2011. For more information, visit [ www.bio-rad.com ].