Former MBA Chairman John “Jack” Opperman, CMB, Passes Away

John C. “Jack” Opperman, CMB, whose 50-year career in the mortgage industry included serving as elected President (Chairman) of the Mortgage Bankers Association in 1978, died on July 13. He was 91.

Mr. Opperman’s career as a mortgage banker spanned more than 50 years. Following service in the Navy during World War II, he earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington and an MBA from Stanford University Business School. He began his career in the mortgage departments of Penn Mutual and Mass Mutual Life Insurance in Los Angeles. In 1958 he and his family moved to San Francisco to work for the firm that later became First Interstate Mortgage Co., eventually becoming its Chairman.

Mr. Opperman served President of the California Mortgage Bankers Association and President of the Northern California Appraisal Institute. He was elected President (Chairman) of the Mortgage Bankers Association in 1978. His volunteerism with MBA included serving on various committees/councils, including its Commercial Board of Governors (COMBOG) and numerous roundtables and special interest councils. He attended many conventions/conferences and MBA-sponsored events. He earned his Certified Mortgage Banker (CMB) designation from MBA in 1993.

“Mr. Opperman was an active contributor in delivering insight into the industry, helping train those entering into the real estate finance industry,” said Phyllis Roberts, MBA Assistant Director in Member Services. “His contributions to the industry, especially the commercial/multifamily segment, is immeasurable. He was a strong advocate for the industry and remembered all who impacted his career and life. He will be sorely missed.”

Mr. Opperman is survived by his wife, Maryann; son John G. Opperman; a sister, Gayle Johnson; three stepdaughters: Natalie Jarman, Vanessa Getty and Alison Montcrief (from his prior marriage) as well as three grandchildren.

As of press time, funeral/memorial information was not available.