John Appleman

John Alan Appleman was born in Webster Groves, Missouri and earned both a bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctor before going on to earn an M.A.

He was a practicing attorney who specialized in trial work. He authored numerous books on legal practice and contributed to Encyclopedia Britannica, World Book Encyclopedia, Tort and Medical Yearbook as well as Reader’s Digest, Rotarian magazine and Woman’s Day magazine.

Early Life and Education

John Appleman was born on January 17, 1986 in New York City and spent four summers at a theater camp before attending Carnegie Mellon University.

After college, he moved to Los Angeles and began acting in Hollywood films such as Beautiful Ohio, Teeth, Pedro, and Private Romeo.

He has also appeared on television as Zach in Smash and Eliot in The Magicians.

He had a passion for sports and coaching. He enjoyed watching his children play baseball and always cheered them on. Additionally, he enjoyed traveling and spending time with his family. Additionally, he read voraciously; devouring history books and solving crossword puzzles alike.

Professional Career

John is currently an Associate at Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP’s Dallas office, where his practice encompasses nonimmigrant and immigrant visas – including those for green card holders – as well as bankruptcy, creditors’ rights and general commercial law matters.

One of his proudest achievements was receiving the “John Alan Appleman Award” in 2010 as “outstanding Substantive Law Section Chair”. This award honors John Alan Appleman, an eminent insurance law scholar who served as President of the Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel from 1950 to 1952. This recognition is presented to someone who has made a particularly outstanding contribution towards furthering FDCC educational objectives through their Section work.

Achievements and Honors

Appleman is an accomplished diver, having won 17 individual national championships during his career. Furthermore, he served as coach for the Ohio State University Diving Club which he transformed into one of the top programs in America.

In recognition of Appleman’s achievements, the School of Medicine recently established the John Appleman Award for Achievement in Medical Education. This honors faculty members for their dedication to teaching and mentorship of students. It was presented at Honors Day – the College’s annual recognition ceremony for graduating fourth-year medical students – where it also recognized student accomplishments such as Jessica Sulllivan ’18 MD receiving Neil Stone Award for Professionalism & Compassion in Medicine; plus several student service awards were given out too.

Personal Life

John was a beloved educator and baseball coach at Lincoln High School in Jersey City. He loved spending time with his students, becoming an icon within the community.

On November 14th 2021, he passed away after a short illness from his loving family members and friends. Survived by his beloved wife Donna; children Julia & husband Kelsey Chaffers; Anna & husband James Abbott III; Gregory; Emma; as well as many cherished family members and friends; he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Historical records and family trees related to John Appleman may contain photos, original documents, family history information, relatives’ dates and locations – all of which can be a valuable resource for researchers. Upon request we will grant access to these records.