Michael J. Tata
  
This Guest Book is maintained online by
Betty Tata, Michael's mother.
 

  
i met mike in las vegas while traveling with john swing... mike got us all free tickets to some great stand-up comedy at MGM where he was working while finishing up at UNLV... we all went in with beers in our pockets... even mike did and he had his MGM uniform on... it was his dinner or lunch break i guess... he got us into a UNLV basketball game as well... only knew the guy for the 2 months i crashed on the floor / couch in he an coley's apartment... while i worked at a video store switching over to another outfit... mike was a kind and chill guy... made our stay more enjoyable for sure... i heard he was working in hawaii post graduation and only found out that he passed from johnboy last week ( beginning of oct 2o24 )... tata had a GREAT non-gambling system... he said when you go out in LV for the evening you take a little dough that you can afford to lose ( saving the other portion for food and drinks ) and you stop into a roulette table and put the disposable loot on red or black... if you win... you have some extra dough to tip out well and do a few more shots... and if you lose you.re only out a little scratch and not your whole wad... - lucky eddie ( a nickname from the hagar the horrible cartoon )
  
   edward dugan
October 6, 2024
  
  
  

  
Mike...I miss you. I miss your laugh. I miss your smile. I miss your sense of humor. I take great comfort in looking at pictures of us and all the good times we had. You were one in a million my friend. I will never forget you and will continue to remember you all the days of my life. xo
  
   Colleen Finnerty-Roberts (Portland, OR)
April 3, 2014
  
  
  

  
   Carrie Carrillo (Porterville, CA)
December 28, 2006

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"Tata"
Where to begin? What words can capture the being of Michael Tata?? To me Michael was: My Boss, My Mentor most important "My Friend!"
I can't believe that he is gone! Maybe absent in the physical sense but I will always have the memories. I have so many great memories, we had so much fun all the name calling, the horse play, the many, many endless laughs usually until we cried, the constant nagging yet the undoubted loyalty between collegues and good friends!
He used to tease me and tell me that I cost him 4K a year in Starbucks yet - we had such great talks over coffee! "What I wouldn't give for another "Tall Americano"!!
Michael was passionate about perfection and detail. He knew how how to create an exceptional experience for a guest and he took pride in the success! Michael was social, he would talk & mingle with anyone ... he was the KING of contacts and networking! They all became his friends. He was a character ... I miss him every day.
Anyone who knew Michael knew someone who was very special and no one can replace that "Little Man!"
I love you Mrs. Tata and I know that your son loved you so very much!
oxoxoxox
Ninya
  
   ninya perna (Las Vegas)
August 5, 2005
  
  
  

  
   Shana Wiley (Las Vegas, NV)
August 4, 2005
  
  
  

  
Dear Family of Michael, It is 4/9/05
and we're still missing Michael, the
hurt won't go away. He was so special and had a precious personality. He was absolutely fasinating.
We know if we miss him this much,
just how much you are going through.
Please find some comfort in knowing he is in such a better place than all of us are and you know you will
see him again. We no longer watch the show, don't even know if it is
still on because the times we saw the re-runs with Michael it was so hard to realize he is gone. May God give you the strength and courage to face each new day. We truly care.
  
   Jane and John Robitzsch (Macon, GA)
April 9, 2005
  
  
  

  
Mrs. Tata, I met you in Las Vegas at Michaels service. My heart still aches for you and Michaels brother. We all miss him dearly.
  
   Stacey Ackermann (Las Vegas, NV)
October 10, 2004

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My thoughts and prayers are with your family and all those who knew Michael and loved him.

May the Lord Bless you in this very difficult time.
  
   Sharon Berry (Sun City, CA)
October 7, 2004

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We want to express our deepest sympathy over Michael's death, it was so terribly tragic and sad. Our tears are falling too and the hurt will never end. We feel as if we have lost a close friend from watching the series on American Casinos. He was a very special and precious man who gave his all. We know how proud you must have been of his high accomplishments. He certainly was loved by so very many.His Memorial Service which we were able to see, was beautiful as we know his funeral and church services were.We pray that he believed in God and is now lighting up the Heavens with his great personality. Sorry we could not have met Michael on this earth but maybe in the next life. He was a fine man with such a big heart, that heart just couldn't hold out against all odds. Believe me when I tell you he will not soon be forgotten by anyone who's path he crossed in person or on T.V. He was
so cute until he could have had a Show all his own!! May you know we share your grief and will in the months and years to come. Michael truly left his mark on this earth
and it was very dear and special.
You had a wonderful son. I had a son
I lost shortly after birth, he lived only 12 hrs. due to brain damage received during birth, I'd love to think he would have been as fine as Micheal. Stephen would have been the age of Michael only born in March. May they meet there in Heaven. God give you Peace and Comfort as only He can. ~+~
  
   Jane and John Robitzsch (Macon, GA)
October 4, 2004
  
  
  

  
It was amazing to me when I burst into tears at the news of Michael Tata's passing. I never had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Tata and yet I felt the loss as if I had known him my whole life. I think that must speak volumes of his affect on people by just being himself. If the viewers of "American Casino" even got to see an eighth of Mr. Tata's spark than I could never imagine the loss felt by his friends and family. I am sure that I can speak for many of Mr. Tata's fans when I express my condolences and quite honestly my envy of those who truly knew such a remarkable man.
  
   Jennifer Knoke (Decorah, IA)
October 4, 2004

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Betty, I am a fan of American Casino and was absolutely heartsick when I saw the dedication to him at the end of the episode. My prayers are with you. Thank you for sharing your son with us he will be missed by many and I hope that in some way these entires to the guest book will help you through the grief. God bless you and all those whom he graced with his presence, on or off-screen.
  
   Donna Lockhart (Sallisaw, OK)
October 3, 2004

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My heartfelt sympathy to the Tata Family and the GVR Family. I just started watching AC and couldn't believe Michael had passed. Michael had alot of passion in everything that he did and was a pleasure to watch on the show.

God speed Michael.
  
   Colleen Barr (Methuen, MA)
October 3, 2004
  
  
  

  
Michael, your family,friends and fans have been blessed as you touched all of our hearts. My prayers are with your loving family and friends
  
   Donna Tufenkjian (Chino Calley, AZ)
October 2, 2004

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My deepest sympathy in the passing of your son. I watched him on American Casino, when I saw he had passed I wanted to find out how. I was shocked to find that he was from my hometown and that we probably crossed paths during high school. He brought laughter into alot of lives. Thank you for that.
  
   eileen jackson (cheektowaga, NY)
October 2, 2004
  
  
  

  
My heart goes out to your family, for the loss of your son, brother, uncle. my thoughts are with you in your time of sorrow.
  
   robert copeland (adams, MA)
October 2, 2004

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A simple note to all that knew and loved Michael...I only knew him through American Casino, but for anyone who watched the show knew how much one man could influence so many lives...I felt like I could relate with him..a real personable guy. It wont be the same with out him. I am sorry for his sudden loss and my heart goes out to those who loves him..Michael and his family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
  
   Nicole Foster (Canal Fulton, OH)
October 2, 2004

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What an honor as a mother/family it must be to know that this wonderful person, Michael has left such amazing impressions on so many (and I know these entries are only a few) what a wonderful thing you did bringing such a wonderful person into this world. Bless you and your family through this crisis, and may you find comfort knowing how Michael has touched so many in a positive way as I was touched tonight watching the last episode of AC that he will be in. May your days get easier and know that he is in a finer place and will live on forever in the so very many hearts he has touched.
  
   Lisa Williams (Ashville, NY)
October 2, 2004
  
  
  

  
As a new viewer of "American Casino", watching the show, getting to know the casino staff through each episode, I was stunned by Michael's passing. As the mother of a 33 year old son myself, I am profoundly sad for Betty Tata. Television is a powerful medium that allows us to experience incredible joy and extreme grief, touching us as though we are part of an extended family. May happy memories soon replace your sadness.
  
   Cathy Bacigalupi (Apopka, FL)
October 1, 2004
  
  
  

  
WE LOVE WATCHING THE SHOW AND WERE SAD TO HEAR THAT MICHAEL HAD PASSED ON TO BE WITH OUR FATHER IN HEAVEN WE LIKED HIS CHARM HE HAD HE BRUNG OUT THE BEST IN PEOPLE AND WE LOVED THAT ABOUT HIM WE ARE SO SORRY AND ARE PRAYING FOR THE FAMILY .
  
   Eddie and Maranda Bradford (Eight Mile, AL)
October 1, 2004

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Jennifer and Christopher, I just found out about the loss of your cousin Michael and must tell you I am deeply sorry for you and the pain you must have felt. I wish I knew earlier. I love you both as does your Uncle Gary and cousins, Jeff and Bryon. I am amazed at the likeness between Michael and both of you. You are deep in my prayers as is Aunt Maureen and the rest of Michael's family. Love to you both, Aunt Sue (Goetz)
  
   Susan Goetz (Pendleton, NY)
September 18, 2004
  
  
  

  
I was incredibly saddened to hear that Mike has passed. My condolences to the Tata family which I had met several times in Las Vegas. Mike was a great guy and I am heart broken to hear that he as left us. A great guy, driven, ambitious, caring and there for me when I needed him without any questions asked. He inspired many with his relentless intensity to be the best. Thanks for everything you gave to us Mike. You will be missed kid.
  
   Bryan Foster (Geneva, Switzerland)
August 20, 2004
  
  
  

  
   Jodi McHugh (Snyder, NY)
August 19, 2004

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Mike-

You will always be remembered fondly from the days of growing up and hanging out and through all the different times of our lives that we met up since then. My deepest sympathy to the Tata and Smith family.
  
   Erika Gould (Amherst '90) (Williamsville, NY)
August 17, 2004
  
  
  

  
Betty

I had the opportunity to read through the incredible tributes to Michael and thought I'd add to your guest book. It has been over a month since I heard the news on Michael. Each day is still filled with an incredible amount of sadness and disbelief - my heart and prayers are with you and your family. I think of you often.

Obviously - Michael had an incredible influence on so many people�s lives - he did with me. I will always remember his smile and laugh - we had some unbelievable times together.

I also wanted to let you know what an honor it was to be selected as one of Michael's pallbearers. We all loved Michael very much and his memory will never be forgotten.

God Speed

John
  
   John Kwiatkowski (Charlotte, NC)
August 17, 2004
  
  
  

  
Betty,
My name is Nina. My dad Matt Sacca worked with Michael. I just wanted to leave a little message letting you know that we are all praying for you. Tata was an unbelievable guy, and will be missed dearly. Thank you for bringing such an awazing person into this world. :)

Nina Sacca
  
   Nina Sacca (Las Vegas, NV)
August 7, 2004

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I am very sorry for your loss..

God Bless you Betty and your family.
  
   Michelle Hull "DeFaria" (Phoneix, AZ)
August 5, 2004

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All our love and prayers are with you. From my brother Rodney,myself and our familys.( My Grandfather is the late Elmer Vincent Tata Sr.)May God bless and keep you as you go through this time.
  
   Kathleen Tata (Phoenix, AZ)
July 25, 2004

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Dear Betty -
You have been in our hearts and thoughts, and we love you so much. Thank you for raising such a fine human being, and for being such a wonderful mother.

Mikey, we missed you so much at our wedding, and I'm sure you know this, but we saved you a seat at our table. Thank you for being such a great friend. From Maui, to Vegas, and forever more. We will never EVER forget you, and all the fun AND crazy times we shared. Mahalo Nui Loa.

A hui hou (until we meet again)
Braeden & Janine Ziegler
  
   Janine & Braeden Ziegler (Shelton, CT)
July 24, 2004

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We love watching "American Casino" and Michael Tata was part of the enjoyment. He really seemed to love his job! We will miss his presence on the show.
  
   Don & Lisa Weir (Greendale, WI)
July 23, 2004
  
  
  

  
Rest in peace bro.
  
   rob mika (GA)
July 23, 2004
  
  
  

  
To All Michael's family, friends, co-workers and people who loved him in general, like me. He will be greatly missed. He had an energy and charisma that will never be duplicated. He had that certain smile and a glint in his eyes that always made me think there was so much more to him than a tough nosed businessman. My loss is that I never met him. However, I'll never forget him.

Anita Brennan
  
   Anita Brennan (New York, NY)
July 22, 2004
  
  
  

  
My condolences to Michael's family and friends. He surely set the bar high for the rest of us and is an inspiration to do the best we can everyday. He lives on in the many lives he touched.
  
   Matt Passeri (Boston, MA)
July 22, 2004
  
  
  

  
mikey-it's been over two weeks and i still cannot believe you are gone. i have to just keep thinking that now you're with grandma eating pasta and peas and i can smile.
I feel like a piece of my childhood is gone--but not forgotten. from my earliest memories of us at nursery school at the Y to drinking champagne with you before h.s. grad to being at GVR in spring and all the memories in between--i will miss you. i love you.

marcy
  
   marcy wiggle (buffalo, NY)
July 22, 2004

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THANK YOU MICHAEL FOR MAKING AN ALREADY GREAT SHOW AN EVEN GREATER ONE!!! GOD BLESS YOU FAMILY AND YOUR FRIENDS!!!!!! YOU WILL BE MISSED.
  
   ELENA PINA (SACRAMENTO, CA)
July 21, 2004
  
  
  

  
To the family, friends and co-workers of Michael Tata,
It is amazing how a person can make such an impact on your life in such a short period of time without ever having met them in person. We were shocked and saddened to hear of Michael's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this devastating time. By the looks of this guest book he had a lot of family and friends who loved him very much. God bless you all.
  
   Jimmy & Julie Ellison (Akron, OH)
July 21, 2004
  
  
  

  
Our deepest sympathies are with Michael Tata�s family and friends. God bless you all and keep you all in His loving hands during this time and may we never forget Michael...forever a shining star.
  
   Theresa G
July 21, 2004
  
  
  

  
My heart goes out to you and yours. I was a big fan of Michael's and the rest of his extended family at GVR. Such a shock. I'm so sorry to hear that bad news. We wish you many good days ahead for your family. You'll be in our prayers.
  
   Doug B (Indianapolis, IN)
July 20, 2004
  
  
  

  
My deepest sympathies to the friends and family of Michael Tata. I loved watching him on American Casino and I was so impressed by his strong work ethic.
  
   Janet McClain (Indianapolis, IN)
July 20, 2004
  
  
  

  
My Condolences to the family and co-workers of Michael Tata
  
   Anthony (NJ)
July 20, 2004
  
  
  

  
Dear Tata Family -
My thoughts and prayers are with you during these difficult times. Please accept my deepest sympathies,

Jennifer Marfino
Amherst High School
Class of '88
  
   Jennifer Marfino (Arlington, VA)
July 19, 2004
  
  
  

  
My prayers go out to Michaels' family and friends. I have just recently become a fan of American Casino. The reason...Michael. I have nothing but respect for him. His passion, drive, and work ethic is rarely seen these days. What an inspiration...he knew what he wanted and worked hard to get it. God bless you, Michael, and your family and friends.
  
   Michele Wright (Syracuse, NY)
July 19, 2004

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Our condolenses go out to Michael's family. He will be missed as an intrical part of American Casino.
  
   Kristy and Will Jefferson (Fayetteville, NC)
July 19, 2004
  
  
  

  
My condolences to Michael's family, friends and associates at the Green Valley Ranch Casino.

I never missed the show on the Discovery channel and was awe struck when they concluded last weeks show with the notice of Michael's passing.

He truly will be missed.
  
   Robert Lieber (Phoenix, AZ)
July 19, 2004
  
  
  

  
The most intriguing personality on televison wasn't a character created by an actor or developed by a writer. I hope he realized he had his own show.
  
   David Braford (Redlands, CA)
July 19, 2004

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I met Michael when I was a guest at the Green Valley Resort and was treated with the utmost respect and kindness upon my arrival. I appreciate the attention to detail that Michael took in every aspect of the hotel and his job. It was evident upon meeting him that each hotel guest's stay was perfect in every manner. My condolences to his family, coworkers & friends. You are in my thoughts & prayers.
Sincerely,
Bryan Miller
Norman, OK
  
   Bryan Miller (Norman, OK)
July 19, 2004

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My thoughts & prayers are with all of Michaels family and friends, what a sad loss.
  
   Richard Dennis (Glendale, AZ)
July 19, 2004
  
  
  

  
Our deepest sympathy to the tata family and friends. Our prayers and thoughts are with you through this time of great loss.

THE LATUSO FAMILY
  
   Christine Latuso (Jacksonville, FL)
July 19, 2004
  
  
  

  
To Michael's family. I'm so sorry for your great loss.
  
   Barbara L. (MO)
July 19, 2004
  
  
  

  
micheal was a great inspiration to so many.i loved watching him ---- always on the ball and in control.all blessings and love to his family and his memory.
  
   tasha juette (rienzi, MS)
July 19, 2004

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I only knew Michael as viewer of AC but he was so dedicated and charasmatic I was glued to the tv when he was on. I was absolutely floored to hear of his untimely passing.

I'm sending my thoughts and prayers to his family, friends and GVR family.
  
   Connie D (NYC, NY)
July 19, 2004
  
  
  

  
I am very sorry for your loss. Michael became a part of our family through American Casino. He appeared to be a wonderful, well-loved individual. I will miss his spirit!
  
   L. N. SPENCE (COLONIAL HEIGHTS, VA)
July 19, 2004
  
  
  

  
When I turned on "American Casino" this evening to watch what I had taped while I was in Las Vegas myself I was stunned to read that he had died just prior to my visit. Because of the show which I love and his interactions with Nina and others I had hoped to visit Green Valley Ranch and see him hopefully in person as he walked through the hotel insuring what he wanted for me and others that visited GVR a truly wonderful guest experience. Unfortunately that won't happen now with his sudden passing, but I do know that because of him I will visit Green Valley Ranch perhaps in October and when I do it will be because of the "passion" that he had for a place he truly loved. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends in Buffalo, NY. as they mourn the loss of a truly consumate professional who loved and was good at what he did for those who worked at or visited Green Valley Ranch.
  
   Dudley Kohl (Laguna Niguel, CA)
July 19, 2004
  
  
  

  
It only took one episode of American Casino for me to see what a kind, loyal, tough, but nice person Michael was. I feel that I know him. I send my prayers to those who did. He will always be missed.
  
   Kay Keaton (Los Angeles)
July 19, 2004
  
  
  

  
My thoughts & prayers are with all of Michaels friends and family, what a sad loss.
  
   Julie Odom (Coarsegold, CA)
July 18, 2004
  
  
  

  
Mike,
You where the best at what you did in the hotel industry. Your cousin will never forget the impact you had on me for the short time you where here with us. I love you.
  
   Ty Smith Jr. (Amherst, NY)
July 18, 2004
  
  
  

  
May God comfort all the family, friends and co-workers of Michael at this most difficult of times. Your loss is shared by us all.
  
   Paul Mc (FL)
July 18, 2004
  
  
  

  
Even though I was familiar with Michael through an edited TV show he appeared to be a unique and genuine individual. He was obviously loved very much as evidenced by the entries in this guest book. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family and friends. I am sad he is gone.
  
   Danielle Stoner (Wilmington, DE)
July 18, 2004

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Michael knew how to keep a tight ship and his lobby looking nice. I'm pretty sure he'll be running the Great Casino in the sky.
  
   Matt Hall (Columbus, OH)
July 18, 2004
  
  
  

  
There were not enough words to comfort me in a recent loss but the knowledge that others gathered in prayer -- carried me through. To the family and friends of Michael - you are in many prayers tonite.
  
   Holly D (Pamplico, SC)
July 18, 2004

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I was so sad to see the end of the show friday.. He was to young .. I am thinking of you all, May the Lord Bless you, and bring you much needed peace at this time..
  
   Diane Olivier (Manville, RI)
July 18, 2004

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Godspeed Michael - You Will Be Missed.
  
   KC EARNHARDT (KANNAPOLIS, NC)
July 18, 2004
  
  
  

  
It's a terrible loss to the entertainment and hospitality industry as a whole. As a young generation X-er who proved we are capable of fantastic sucess. My heart bleeds for his survivors , friends, colleages, and the TV public who ( as I am sure everyone whose life he touched) either loved him or hated him. He was not a middle of the road man, not a "yes" man and most importantly he was a DOER, a leader, and he wore his heart on his sleave. The world has lost a gtreat leader nad citizen.
  
   Scott Lovin (Zebulon, NC)
July 18, 2004
  
  
  

  
Mr Tata made me want to turn in to the show. I will miss his smile and quick wit.
  
   Sharon Lewis (Huber Heights, OH)
July 18, 2004
  
  
  

  
My heart felt appologies and condolences go out to all the members and cast to have lost such a man. No words can heal the loss they've endured. But time heals and we will never forget such a man who had such a short life. But what a life it was... his success' are still echoing at GVR. Rest In Peace.
  
   Zandrea Demarco (Clearwater, FL)
July 17, 2004

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I was shocked to see the show last night dedicated to Michael's memory. I had no idea what had happened. I am so sorry for you loss. I knew him briefly when I was a student interning at GVR and he was never anything but nice and helpful to me. He will be missed. His time on this earth was way too short.
  
   AM Martin (Las Vegas, NV)
July 17, 2004
  
  
  

  
On Friday as I was flipping through the channels, I happened upon the show "American Casino." Immediately I was captivated by the presence of a young man whose magnetic personality, integrity, and professionalism leapt through the tv screen. I know that Michael will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved him.
You have my deepest sympathy.
  
   Sharyn Kmieciak (Everson, PA)
July 17, 2004

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I am so sorry for your loss. At the end of the show last night my husband and I were shocked to see that Michael had passed away. Moments before that we were talking about how he made the show so much more interesting with his rough exterior. You oviously brought up a wonderful human being and are prayers are with you.
  
   Kim Remynse (Rio Vista, CA)
July 17, 2004
  
  
  

  
I really enjoyed watching Michael on American Casino. Michael had such a great big smile and his face lit up a room. I send to all his family and many friends my deepest sympathys..We Will Miss You Michael.
  
   Susan Long (Long Island, NY)
July 17, 2004

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I was shocked to find out that you had died. I became a big fan of yours when I started watching American Casino. You were the most interesting character on the show. The series will solely miss you. My God bless you and your family.
  
   Joyce Schweitzer (Hollywood, FL)
July 17, 2004

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I seldom meet people with a combination of ambition, loyalty and class. As a small business owner, Michael caught my attention with his unique and quality style of management. I will certainly miss him on Amercian Casino.
  
   Danny Pugh (Pelham, AL)
July 17, 2004

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Betty--
I am so sorry to hear of your loss.
Jacqui Frederick
Former Arch Friend
  
   Jacqui Frederick (Wappingers Falls, NY)
July 17, 2004
  
  
  

  
It saddens me to see such a driven person pass so early in life. I give my condolences and prayers to his family and friends. I was shocked to hear about his passing on the show itself. I couldnt help wonder what the situation was to this tragedy. However, I share a blessed be to all those who are suffering over his loss. Bless all fo you.
  
   Linda Feliciano (East Hartford, CT)
July 17, 2004

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To Michael's Family:

Our deepest condolences. We have only seen your son on television and when we saw the show yesterday evening we were shocked by his untimely passing. We will remember him in our prayers.

The Seymour Family
Ron & Leslie
  
   leslie seymour (navarre, FL)
July 17, 2004

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One of the reasons I watched the show was to see Michael. My husband and I lived in Nevada and know the lifestyle of casino life. I myself worked for a prominent hotel, so I could identify with Michael's work ethics. I was shocked to see the dedication to him after the show, he was so young! My heart goes out to his family and friends. He was a joy to watch on TV and will be missed.
  
   The Baker Family (Longmont, CO)
July 17, 2004
  
  
  

  
I Want You To Know
by Angela
A brief moment of darkness
was all that I knew,
before Heaven's Gate
came into my view.

Loved ones and friends
I had missed for many years,
welcomed me with open arms
and many happy tears.

All the hurt, fear and pain
that I have ever known,
is gone from my life,
I am finally home.

I gazed upon the Lord's
sweet smiling face,
and for the first time in my life
I knew and felt His grace.

I know that you miss me,
but please dry your eyes.
I will always be watching and loving you
from my home in the sky.

A cool breeze on your face,
a touch of light rain,
I will send as a reminder
that we will be reunited again.

Life on earth is but one
brief moment in time,
I am finally home,
Eternity is mine.
  
   Douglas Voltin (Salem, OR)
July 17, 2004

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My family just finished watching American Casino and were shocked to see it dedicated to Michael. Our prayers go out to your family and friends. Your teasing humor will be missed greatly.
  
   Kathy Johnson (Oak Harbor, OH)
July 16, 2004

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Betty I have not stopped thinking of you since I received your e-mail about Michael. I just want you to know I am holding you in my heart and in my prayers.
  
   Laurie Grube (Carrollton,, TX)
July 16, 2004

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Tata, Today was a very sad day for me, i just found out about your unfortunate death. My deepest sorrow goes to your family & friends. You were "one of a kind". We met in 1996 in Vegas, that was the start of a great friendship. You came to NYC many times to visit, you even brought me to my 1st horse race in Saratoga, NY. Then it was to out to Maui. Thanks for putting us up for 2 weeks! Then it was back to Vegas! Tata has a house, we can always stay there! Thanks for all the great memories, good times and laughs. You will never be forgotten.
  
   Colleen Finnerty (portland, OR)
July 15, 2004

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   Hector Machado (Rochester, NY)
July 15, 2004

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Michael
It was many of times and many of laughs that I got to share with you with my older brothers. You always made me laugh and would do anything to help out a friend's little brother.
You are loved by everyone
  
   Kilty Cleary (Chicago, IL)
July 14, 2004
  
  
  

  
Betty, it has been so many years since we met, but the ones in between with your son have left us such happy memories and alot of laughter. I remember when Marc first began trying to describe his roommate to us - Michael was everything and more. The value of each of us can be measured in the love of those left behind - and Michael was a priceless treasure. Our love to you and our thanks to you for sharing him with us for the little time we had him.
  
   Jesus and Judy Moulinet (Austin, TX)
July 13, 2004

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It is with a heavy heart that I offer my condolences to the family of my friend Michael Tata. Michael and I met while working at the Four Season's Maui, although at the time Michael was still a rookie, we could all tell he had the stuff to make it in the Hotel Biz. Michael humbly accepted the position of Assistant Laundry Manager, not the most glamorous position but Michael knew where he was going.

Michael & friends lived in a unbelievable home in Wailea, (Maui Meadows) with a clear view of the pacific ocean from the pool deck and living room. We had many wonderful days and nights there. I remember Michael teaching my 6 year old son how to rollerblade, coming from Buffalo, Michael was a great skater/Hockey player. I remember a barbeque while his Mother was visiting. She brought a famous marinade from Baffalo! It was great.

It was nice to meet Michael�s mother and we could tell that much of his positive demeanor came from her! I�m sorry I never had the chance to meet Michael�s Dad, but I�m sure the same would be true.

My wife and I are certainly at a loss for words, we both loved Michael very much, as most people did that knew him. We were blessed to have him at our wedding on Maui and blessed to have him involved with our kids.

The last time we saw him was here in LA, GVR hosted a guest appreciation dinner in Beverly Hills at Wolgang Puck�s restaurant. This dinner was for high rollers from LA that stayed and played at GVR. Michael was nice enough to invite us as well! We had a great time listening to Michael talk about life in Vegas!

Betty, I am so sorry for your loss. Please take comfort in knowing that Michael was among many things but most important a very loved and respected human being. He left a positive impression on everyone he met.

Michael, God bless and I know if they show the Bill�s games in heaven, you will be watching!

Love,
Gregg, Hilarie, Jordan, Summer, Christian & Cameron Steele
  
   Gregg Steele (Marina Del Rey, CA)
July 13, 2004

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My deepest condolences! I remember Mike from high school and he was one of the nicest people I remember. He will be sorely missed while he is enjoying the party of his life up in heaven.
  
   Heather Fleming (McKenna) (Amherst, NY)
July 13, 2004

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I am truly sorry for your loss. Having the pleasure of being around Mike a few occassions and knowing some of his dear friends, it was quite obvious how extremely happy and beloved he made people feel. He is one of those rare individuals that accepts you into the group and makes it warm and inviting to be around. The hearts he touched are many and in those hearts he will be remembered.
Mollie O'Rourke
  
   mollie o'rourke (buffalo, NY)
July 12, 2004

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My deepest sympathies go out to Mike's family and friends. He was a very special person and will be deeply missed.
  
   Jessica Greenman (Seattle, WA)
July 12, 2004

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My deepest sympathy to Michael's family and close friends.

Sincerely,
Kelly Spampata
Amherst Class of 1989
  
   Kelly Spampata (Buffalo, NY)
July 12, 2004
  
  
  

  
To Taaa Taaa,
A week later I am still in denial. How can it be?

From Buff, to Vegas, to Maui, and back again - it was a run filled with great memories and roaring laughter. You brought Buff everywhere you went. Your smile and laugh were contagious. Your wisecracks cutting. Your heart as big as the MGM Grand.

Today my heart hurts for your family and our friends, and also for selfish reasons - because I won't get to add to the mountain of good times we shared. I had a front row seat to watch all your hard work pay off and I am pissed that was taken from me.

You'll be missed Mikey, but never forgotten.
Love,
Pooh
  
   chris pirrone (san fransico, CA)
July 12, 2004
  
  
  

  
Mikey, Midge, Tata.....I can do nothing but think of all the great times. So many incredible years in Vegas, to Maui, the house on the hill. Our Vegas trip with all the boys, living it up at the MGM (I never made it back). We lived like kings, you are the king, at the top of your game. Mikey you are sorely missed. Much love and many thoughts in your memory.
  
   Marc (Nikki and Kaeli) Moulinet (Palo Alto, CA)
July 12, 2004

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Betty and Michael, My brothers and I will always remember your son. When I heard of the news I was devastated. Please send our love to you and your family from ours. Brian, John and Jennifer Smith
  
   Jennifer Smith (Osan AB Republic of Korea, NY)
July 11, 2004
  
  
  

  
I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Michael. I met him briefly at GVR when I was vistiting there this spring. The prayers of myself and my family are with you all.
  
   William Heckel (Little Falls, NY)
July 11, 2004
  
  
  

  
Thoughts and prayers to the friends and family of Michael, from a coworker at GVR.
  
   Laura Travell (Henderson, NV)
July 11, 2004
  
  
  

  
To the Tata and Smith families -- I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Michael was a warm person whose smile brightened up all the hearts he touched. You are all in my prayers.
  
   Carrie Ann Perez (Liberante) (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
July 11, 2004

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BETTY, GAIL AND I SEND OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO YOU AND THE FAMILY. WE WILL REMEMBER YOU IN OUR PRAYERS.
  
   JAMES CORBETT (PALM BAY, FL)
July 11, 2004
  
  
  

  
Michael, Blessed be on your way;
Betty, My heart bleeds with you.
Love, D.L.
  
   Donna Lusby (Buffalo, NY)
July 10, 2004
  
  
  

  
Michael we are still in disarray that you are no longer with us. We will always remember the great times we shared, from UNLV games and Slots a Fun to your awesome spaghetti sauce and watching the Bills. You definitely left your impression here in Vegas. I will always remember you as being one of the first to see our son roll over his first time on camera (during a football game,of course). You will always hold a special place in our hearts, and we miss you so. Our hearts and prayers go out to your family and friends.
  
   Matt, Kelly and Joseph Muldoon (Henderson, NV)
July 10, 2004
  
  
  

  
Michael and Betty,
I am sorry for your loss. You are remembered in my prayers.
Kathy Faber
  
   Kathy Faber (Amherst, NY)
July 10, 2004
  
  
  

  
Mike was a great person who touched everyone he knew. He had a kind heart, a mind as sharp as a tack, a smile that could sell you anything, and a twinkle in his eye that sometimes made you wonder what he was really up to, but he also always had the best of intentions. We will all miss him a great deal. Love and prayers for all of his family and friends.
  
   Leilani Lucca (Columbia, MD)
July 10, 2004

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Your infectious smile will be missed by many.Also being a transplant of BUFFALO, it was nice to have known you, if only for this short while.Your presence will always be felt in GREEN VALLEY........
  
   Don Sowinski (Las Vegas, NV)
July 10, 2004
  
  
  

  
MICHAEL, I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT HAPPENED, BUT YOUR FRIENDS AT STARBUCKS MISS YOU. ITS A WEIRD FEELING, NOT SEEING YOU THERE ANYMORE IN THE MORNINGS. MISS YOU AND YOU LEFT A VERY GOOD IMPRESSION ON MANY PEOPLE. WILL MISS YOU. GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY
  
   MICHAEL CONNOLLY (HENDERSON, NV)
July 10, 2004

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