Laughlin is survived by one sister, three children, five grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Laughlin became a revered figure who would greet staff and guests while strolling through the hotel and casino.

Many of his employees were Arizona residents. In 1991, he donated land and the funds for Laughlin/Bullhead City International Airport. In 1986, Laughlin bankrolled the construction of the Laughlin Bridge connecting Nevada and Arizona. His influence on the region only grew from there. It was the inspector who suggested his surname, according to the Riverside Resort’s website. Postal Service inspector told the casino owner he needed a name to receive mail. It was two years later that the area became Laughlin. Laughlin bought a boarded-up motel and 6 acres (2.4 hectares) along the riverfront. He visited the Mohave Desert and saw a stretch of land called Tri-State was unoccupied. Sign up today and get access to exclusive promotions and offers. Earn points, cash, free play, and more while playing your favorite slots, poker, bingo, and other games.

In 1964, 10 years after buying a gambling business in North Las Vegas, Laughlin sold it for $165,000, according to his biography posted on the resort’s website. Join the King of Clubs Players Club and enjoy the benefits of being a member of the Riverside Resort and Casino. “I said, ‘I’m making three times what you are, so I’m out the door,’” Laughlin recalled to the Review-Journal.

Don laughlin riverside casino