Gateway Casinos & Entertainment has announced that CEO and Director Tony Santo, 61, passed away unexpectedly on August 17, 2023.

Santo joined Gateway Casinos as President and CEO in October 2013 before being named a Director in July 2017.

He previously held the position of President & CEO of Santo Gaming, as well as President of Bally’s Grand, President for Flamingo Reno Casino, and Senior Vice President of Caesars Holdings.

Following news of Santo’s untimely passing, Tolek Strukoff, Gateway’s President, paid tribute to the “iconic” leader.

Strukoff said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tony Santo. Tony joined Gateway as our President and Chief Executive Officer in October 2013 and became a Director in July 2017. His mission was to establish Gateway as Canada’s premier entertainment and gaming company.

“You could often find Tony visiting sites and staff from dawn to dusk connecting about their work, families, and lives. Tony was an iconic leader in the US and Canada and grew Gateway from a small regional gaming company to one of the largest gaming companies in Canada.

“However, Tony would say himself he didn’t do it – we did it together.”

Strukoff continued: “Tony was an outstanding leader, colleague and friend, and he will be greatly missed. On behalf of all of Gateway’s employees, I extend our deepest sympathies to the entire Santo family.”

Meanwhile, the Canadian Gaming Association offered its condolences.

“The CGA is saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Tony Santo, CEO of Gateway Casinos & Entertainment.

“On behalf of the association and the Board, we send our condolences to the Santo family, and to all Gateway employees.”