Alan Leon Spielman

Spielman Alan Leon Sept. 30, 1942 - Aug. 15, 2025 Age 82, of Philadelphia, PA, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2025. Born in Atlantic City, Alan grew up in Ventnor, New Jersey. He was blinded in his first semester of 9th grade when a teacher blew up a chemistry experiment. Undeterred, he became a standout chess champion at the age of 15 and went on to have a beautiful family and remarkable career. He moved to Philadelphia after attending Swarthmore College and the University of Pennsylvania Law School, and married Carol Ann Spielman (nee Goldmann), with whom he had two children, Daniel and Darren. After a few years working at large law firms, he started his own practice. He was an accomplished civil litigator and entertainment lawyer. Governor Shapp appointed him Special Attorney to the Pennsylvania Counsel on the Arts and the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission; he was also appointed to a role with the National Endowment for the Humanities. Alan provided pro bono support to many artists and cultural organizations, receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award from Philadelphia Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts. For years he represented and managed musicians, including many prominent jazz artists and, famously, Robert Hazard, who wrote the hit song "Girls Just Want to Have Fun." He loved his family deeply, was adored by his children and grandchildren, had a ridiculous sense of humor, and took care of many people that entered his life. He will be remembered for his intellect, his endless wit, and his love. Alan was preceded in death by his wife, Carol, and brothers Stanley and Ronald. He is survived by his children Daniel (Donna) and Darren (Liza), and by Jane Erikson, his partner of two decades. He was "Poppy" to his four grandchildren, Julian, Noah, Diego and Pablo, who will miss him dearly. He will also be missed by his nieces, nephew, other extended family members, and friends across generations. Donations in Alan's honor can be made to the American Civil Liberties Union (to support lobbying) or the American Civil Liberties Foundation (to support litigation). The family will hold a memorial service at a later date.