Felix Rappaport, the president and CEO of Foxwoods Resort Casino, died suddenly yesterday at the age of 65.

Announcing the death, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation said a cause was yet to be determined. Rappaport had led Foxwoods, one of the world’s largest casino resorts, for more than four years.

 (PRNewsfoto/Foxwoods Resort Casino)

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

“With his passing, we have suffered a major loss. Felix’s passion for modernising and growing Foxwoods, as well as his friendship, mentorship and humour, 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.”

Before joining Foxwoods, in a career spanning four decades, Rappaport worked for leading industry companies including Station Casinos, Hershey Entertainment and Resort Company, Mirage and Treasure Island. During his time at MGM Resorts International, Rappaport served as president/chief operating officer of Mirage, NYNY, Luxor and Excalibur.

In a statement, 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 long-term vision.”