Arthur I. Appleton Passes On

Arthur I. Appleton, former president of Appleton Electric Co., died Jan. 15. He was 92 years old.

Appleton directed the affairs of Appleton Electric Co. from 1947 when he became president following his father’s retirement, through 1982 when Appleton Electric was sold to Emerson. Prior to assuming the presidency, Appleton served in various capacities with the company, including both plant and administrative positions, starting with the company in June 1936 upon his graduation from Dartmouth College. Under his guidance and direction, the company carried out major modernization and automation programs, which expanded Appleton’s manufacturing capabilities, increased production efficiency and reduced manufacturing costs.

In addition to his duties as the active administrative head of the company, Appleton was responsible for the improvement and development of many Appleton products. Most of his inventions were innovations in the electrical field and were exclusive to the Appleton line. He held approximately 114 patents in his own name, and is listed as joint patentee on nine additional patent applications. In 1978, he was the recipient of the Chicago Electric Association’s Gold Medal Award, honoring his “outstanding creative technical and managerial talents,” and his efforts in “exemplifying the highest qualities of industry and community leadership, which won him the respect and admiration of the entire electrical industry.”

Appleton also was one of the country’s leading thoroughbred horse breeders and owners.

He is survived by four sons, Arthur Jr., Tom, Jim and Bill; and a daughter, Linda.