Joseph Pedott, a native Chicagoan and the advertising mastermind behind the iconic ‘80s products the Clapper and the Chia Pet, died in San Francisco. He was 91.

In 1980, while attending a housewares show in search of new clients, Mr. Pedott learned about a terra cotta planter, shaped like a ram, that grew chia sprouts resembling hair when watered. The inventor said it was popular but not profitable. Mr. Pedott bought the rights and tinkered with it. Two years later, the Chia ram debuted, followed by more animals over the years, including turtles, kittens and puppies, and later, pop culture figures. There is even a Chia version of President Barack Obama.

The Clapper, a gadget that turned lights on and off when someone clapped, was released in 1985.