OAKLAND — Bernard J. Tyson, Kaiser Permanente chairman and CEO, died in his sleep early Sunday. He was 60.

Kaiser Permanente issued the following statement Sunday:

“On behalf of our Board of Directors, employees and physicians, we extend our deepest sympathies to Bernard’s family during this very difficult time.

“An outstanding leader, visionary and champion for high-quality, affordable health care for all Americans, Bernard was a tireless advocate for Kaiser Permanente, our members and the communities we serve.

“Most importantly, Bernard was a devoted husband, father and friend. We all will miss his tremendous presence in our lives.

“Effective immediately, the board of directors has named Gregory A. Adams, executive vice president and group president, as interim Chairman and CEO.

“‘Bernard was an exceptional colleague, a passionate leader, and an honorable man. We will greatly miss him,’ said board member Edward Pei, chair of the Executive Committee and the Governance, Accountability and Nominating Committee.

“The board has full confidence in Greg Adams’ ability to lead Kaiser Permanente through this unexpected transition.”

California Gov. Gavin Newsom tweeted a tribute Sunday afternoon: “We will always remember how he made health care accessible for so many while paving the way for countless professionals of color to pursue leadership roles.”

Newsom also issued a statement:

“Jennifer and I are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of health care pioneer and our dear friend Bernard Tyson. Bernard’s vision and influence made an impact at home and abroad, and he led with excellence on behalf of millions of Kaiser patients and thousands of employees. We will always remember how he made health care accessible for so many while paving the way for countless professionals of color to pursue leadership roles in health care and corporate America.

“Our thoughts are with Denise, the Tyson family, and all at Kaiser Permanente who were inspired by Bernard’s leadership and example.”

About Kaiser Permanente
Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.3 million members in eight states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education and the support of community health. Visit https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/.