Gateway Casinos & Entertainment has announced that Chief Executive Officer and Director Tony Santo passed away unexpectedly on August 17, 2023.
Santo joined and became the CEO and President of Gateway Casinos in October 2013 to help the operator succeed in the Canadian entertainment and gaming industry. He was later appointed Director in July 2017.
Tolek Strukoff, President of Gateway Casinos, described Santo as an “iconic” and “outstanding” leader who helped the operator grow into what it is today, while also praising his work ethic and relationship with staff members.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tony Santo,” Strukoff said, “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.”
