Gary Richard Selesner

July 31, 1953 - September 9, 2024

Gary Selesner, the visionary leader and retired Regional President of Caesars Entertainment in Las Vegas, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2024 at the age of 71. Known for his dynamic leadership, Gary played a pivotal role in shaping one of the world's most iconic resorts, leaving an indelible mark on the hospitality and gaming industry in Las Vegas.

Born on July 31, 1953 in Newark, New Jersey, Gary's career in the hospitality industry spanned almost five decades, beginning in the late 1970s. He quickly rose through the ranks due to his keen business acumen and a deep understanding of guest experiences. His journey led him to Caesars Entertainment, where he served in various leadership roles before becoming President of Caesars Palace in 2005.

During his nearly two-decade tenure as president, Gary built upon Caesars Palace legacy, overseeing significant expansions and renovations. He was instrumental in the creation of new luxury suites, the opening of world-class restaurants, and the introduction of high-profile entertainment acts, ensuring that Caesars Palace remained at the forefront of the ever-evolving Las Vegas experience. Caesars Entertainment acknowledged his exceptional skills and experiences for the industry and appointed him to the position of Regional President in Las Vegas in 2018.

Gary was not only respected for his professional achievements but also admired for his warmth, kindness, and commitment to his employees and the community. He believed in nurturing talent and was a mentor to many in the industry. His leadership style was defined by a deep respect for tradition while always looking toward the future.

Outside of his professional life, Gary was a devoted family man who cherished time with his loved ones. Known for his love of travel, fine dining, and his passion for the arts and culture, Gary was first and foremost a "foodie". Tracking down the perfect slice of pizza, hunting for the quintessential taco, seeking out the ultimate dining experience, Gary was simply in his element. He loved food in all its forms.

Gary Selesner's legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched and the monumental impact he made in Las Vegas throughout his career. He is survived by his wife Peggy, his children Lisa (Daniel), Leigh (Eryc) and Jeremy (Sarah), and his grandchildren Raven and August. They will carry forward his memory with love and pride.

In lieu of flowers, and as a heartfelt expression of sympathy, we kindly request that you consider making a donation to Keep Memory Alive and Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health.

https://givenv.ccf.org/GarySelesner.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Press of Atlantic City from Sep. 14 to Sep. 15, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Gary Selesner

Sponsored by King David Memorial Chapel & Cemetery.

18 Entries

Marci Peller Bakke

September 9, 2025

It's so hard to believe that it's been a year that you are gone. I think about you often and all the kind words you told me when my parents passed. Rest in Peace, my friend.

Kat Tampio

September 8, 2025

Wow! A year already! How time flies.... But your memory will live on to everyone you touched throughout your life and career. You were a one-of-a-kind leader, Gary. You never looked down on anyone, as an exec, unlike many others. You treated everyone equally, and recognized their worth. I´m thankful to be one of those people. Rest easy, young man.

Kat Tampio

November 10, 2024

I just learned of Gary´s passing. I worked with Gary at Harrah´s for a few years. He was a class act! He never made anyone feel lesser, no matter his position within the company. A true gentleman.
Sincere and deepest sympathies to his family. His love and memory will stay in your hearts always.
He will truly be missed. Rest easy, Gary.

Howard Klein

November 1, 2024

Peggy: I just heard of Gary's passing and am devastated. We shared such a special place in each other's lives from beginnings in the 1980s. His ascent to a well deserved, magnificent career was one of the great stories of the era in our business. He was without doubt one of the finest human beings I ever knew. Whatever small place I occupied in his wonderful world was always a gem that sparkled in my memory. All best for you kids, grandchildren in the times ahead. Much love and hugs Howard Jay Klein and Paula Klein

Vivienne Sinkow

October 30, 2024

Peggy, I was so surprised to hear of Gary´s passing. You are truly in my thoughts and prayers. Much love going forward

Lori Snyder

October 9, 2024

Dear Peggy and family,

Brian and I would like to say how sorry we were to hear of Gary´s passing. We thought the world of Gary and enjoyed the times we were together. We especially liked when you came to our home for a family get together. Our hearts go out to you and we wish you continued healing during this difficult time.

With sincere sympathy,
Brian and Lori Snyder

Donna Marcou

October 4, 2024

I am very sad to hear the news about Gary. I met him when I was at Planet Hollywood Resort. He was always such a kind and humble man and a great leader for Caesar's and the Las Vegas hospitality industry. May God comfort your hearts at this time in need and keep his love and cherished memories with you all.

September 29, 2024

He was also really nice when he was in charge of the Rio. He always ate at Mah Jong and later Pho Da Nang. R.i.p.

Stacey Purcell

September 20, 2024

Dear Peggy & Family,

I had the honor and privilege of knowing and working with Gary during my 30+ years at Caesars Entertainment. He was special in so many ways, but most especially in the way he supported my customers. Two very special customers Gary made time for no matter what was Dr. Kenneth Mattox & Mary Allen with American College of Surgeons, Trauma & Critical Care. They have been holding their convention at Caesars Palace for almost 60 years! Gary´s support meant the world!!! He told me long ago, it´s not about the amount of revenue, it´s all about the relationship. The customer experience instrumental to Gary. His leadership set him apart from so many bosses. He was brilliant, kind, generous, responsive, a great family man, and a true gentleman. My heart is broken. I will keep his memory alive! I am sending prayers and peace to you Please don´t hesitate to reach me if you need anything! All my love

Stacey Purcell
Cell: 702-401-3312

Charlotte Roselle Miller

September 18, 2024

Had the pleasure of working with Gary in the 1980s during the glory days of Trump Plaza in atlantic city. Wishing Peggy & family the best during this difficult time. A noble man.

Todd Harrington

September 18, 2024

Amazing man, operator, and human. Gary played a big part in my career at a crucial time in it's development

Thom Laurino

September 18, 2024

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Dave Hanlon

September 16, 2024

I first met Gary when we worked together at Trump Plaza. It was an honor to work with him and to know him. He was a very fine person. He will be missed. My sincere condolences to his family. Dave Hanlon

Sandy Alba

September 15, 2024

Dear Peggy and family
We had just heard of Gary's passing. At the time when our family met your family, it was on a soccer field. Go figure what would happen next. Our families became friends and we enjoyed the ups and downs of being soccer parents. Gary was a vrry energetic Dad! I always looked forward to seeing your family at practice and of course the "Big" games. Gary was a Very Kool Dad Too! Gary always said "HI" and made us comfortable in every way. Peggy, I want to Thank You and your family for sharing such a Wonderful Man with us. Also, thank you for helping us in our time of need with Bri. Our Heart Felt Condolences to yiu, Peggy and family.
Much Love Sandy Alba and Family

DeDe Vecchiarelli

September 15, 2024

Gary was my classmate at Walt Whitman High School. I was so happy when I found out he lived here in Nevada, and we were in touch again. Gary was a kind and loving man who loved his family. Rest in Peace my Friend sorry for your loss Peggy and Family.
DeDe Vecchiarelli

Dr Aubrey & Debra Zidenberg

September 14, 2024

A true gentleman, an industry leader and most importantly, a friend! Our heartfelt condolences to Peggy and the family.

Dr Aubrey & Debra Zidenberg

Rizal Risjad

September 14, 2024

Dear Gary´s Family,

We are deeply sorry for your loss. Caesars has lost a remarkable man, and we have lost a dear friend. Gary was a wonderful person who touched the lives of so many with his warmth, kindness, and smile. He will be greatly missed. May our heartfelt condolences bring you comfort, and may our prayers help ease the pain of this loss.

Rest in peace, Gary.

With deepest sympathy,
Rizal Risjad & Family

Marci T. Bakke

September 14, 2024

I just read of Gary's passing. He was a dear friend to me and my parents since the days in Atlantic City. My heart goes out to Peggy, his children and grandchildren. As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Gary always told me that my mom was on my shoulder when I would hit a jackpot on her favorite machine in Caesar's.

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