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Connecticut Casino Mogul Dies Unexpectedly

The president and CEO of Foxwoods Resort Casino, died unexpectedly on Monday, June 18. 

Felix Rappaport, president & CEO of Foxwoods Resort Casino

Felix Rappaport, president & CEO of Foxwoods Resort Casino

Photo Credit: Provided

Foxwoods Resort CEO & President Felix Rappaport

Photo Credit: YouTube/Celebrity Radio by Alex Belfield

Felix Rappaport was 65 years old.

During Rappaport's more than four years as a visionary leader of one of the world's largest and most successful gaming enterprises, his contributions to the broader Foxwoods team have been profound, the company said. 

Foxwoods, a hotel and casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, said the cause of Rappaport's death has not been determined. 

“On behalf of the entire Tribal Council, Foxwoods management team and staff, we extend our deepest sympathies to Felix’s family,” MPTN Chairman Rodney Butler said in a news statement.

“With his passing, we have suffered a major loss. Felix’s passion for modernizing and growing Foxwoods, as well as his friendship, mentorship and humor touched everyone who worked with him,” Butler said. “We are confident that Felix’s legacy will live on as we continue to push forward on the vision he set.”

An unrivaled and tireless powerhouse during his career, which spanned four decades across major resort gaming operations throughout the country, Rappaport's passion and leadership in hospitality, gaming and entertainment is unmatched. 

Before joining Foxwoods, Rappaport worked for many of the world's largest and most well-known names in the industry including Station Casinos, Hershey Entertainment and Resort Company, Mirage and Treasure Island. He also previously served as President/COO of Mirage, NYNY, Luxor and Excalibur, while working for MGM Resorts International.

Rappaport was credited with bringing new initiatives into Foxwoods Resort Casino that gave visitors an unforgettable experience, helping make it an international destination resort. 

In addition to a focus on enhanced service and quality, he was a true believer in making Foxwoods a fun and engaging place to work for all its 6,500-plus staff, the company said.

The Tribal Council said it will consider how to best resume Rappaport's strategic plan for growth in the days ahead with a continued focused on the property's longterm vision.

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