Dudley Ralph Appelman III, of Sharon, MA, passed away in his home on Wednesday, January 27, 2021 after a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was 83 years old. Born in Kearney, NE, on July 6, 1937 to Dudley Ralph Appelman, Jr. and Leila Hudson Appelman, Dudley graduated from University High in Bloomington, IN, in 1955. He received a degree in Civil Engineering from Purdue University in 1961.
Following college, Dudley served as an active-duty officer in both the US Navy and US Army Corps of Engineers. His career experiences were broad, beginning with CECO Steel. In 1967, he moved to Attleboro, MA, to join Texas Instruments. He also worked in various marketing and business management roles at Varian Associates, Standard-Thompson, and then as VP of Sales for Leach and Garner where he was able to take his love of designing and making jewelry into the world of high fashion.
Dudley had a quick and dry sense of humor, which he relied on to entertain his many customers, friends, and family. He was a talented craftsman who exhibited his silver jewelry, metal sculptures, and wood working at juried shows throughout New England. An active member of the Sharon Congregational Church, Dudley served on the executive board, sang in the church choir, and served as treasurer. Dudley loved to travel to and photograph exotic locations around the world. Evidence of his friendly competition with his wife, Carolyn, over who could capture the best images adorn the walls of their home.
Dudley is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Carolyn Vicari-Appelman; two sons, Wade Appelman and Kirk Appelman; five grandsons, Christopher, Cole, Brian, Brendan, and Elliot Appelman; and brother Robert Appelman of Bloomington, IN.
A memorial service to celebrate Dudley’s life will be held at a later date due to current gathering restrictions. Details will be posted when available.