The gaming industry is in shock this morning following the sudden passing of Foxwoods Resort Casino’s President and CEO Felix Rappaport.
Foxwoods and its owners, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation (MPTN), announced Rappaport’s sudden loss overnight, stating that the cause of death has not yet been determined.
“On behalf of the entire Tribal Council, Foxwoods management team and staff, we extend our deepest sympathies to Felix’s family,” said MPTN Chairman Rodney Butler. “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. We are confident that Felix’s legacy will live on as we continue to push forward on the vision he set.”
It was only last month that Inside Asian Gaming sat down with Rappaport at the Japan Gaming Congress in Tokyo as he expressed his excitement about Foxwoods pursuing a regional Japan gaming license. The full interview is featured in the current edition of IAG.
Rappaport was respected as a highly efficient operator, having previously worked for many of the world’s largest gaming companies including Station Casinos, Hershey Entertainment and Resort Company, Mirage and Treasure Island. He also previously served as President and COO of Mirage, New York New York, Luxor and Excalibur while working for MGM Resorts International.
Rappaport was appointed President and CEO of Foxwoods in November 2014.
“A true visionary, Rappaport was responsible for bringing new initiatives into Foxwoods Resort Casino that brought guests an unforgettable experience, helping make it a world-class destination resort,” Foxwoods said. “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 team members.
“The Tribal Council will consider how to best resume Rappaport’s strategic plan for growth in the days ahead with a continued focused on the property’s long-term vision.”
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