Don Lee Wilson

Don “Slick” Wilson, 81, of Las Vegas, lost his battle with lung cancer after a brave fight. He joined his beloved wife, Bettye Wilson, when he passed away June 25, 2013, on their 56th wedding anniversary. He was born May 15, 1932, in Rison, Ark., and was a 54-year resident of Las Vegas. A multi-talented athlete, he played a variety of sports in high school in Pine Bluff, Ark. Don enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving from 1951-1955 and attained the rank of staff sergeant. He was in the 50th Communication Squadron and was stationed overseas during the Korean War. He then returned to Arkansas, married the love of his life, Bettye, in 1957 and graduated from Arkansas A&M with a bachelor of science degree. In 1959, Don and Bettye moved to Las Vegas, and he started his career in the gaming industry. Don “The Geez” found his talent and passion for dealing craps and became a legend on the Strip. He began his career at the Nevada Club and then went on to display his talent at many different venues. He opened Caesars Palace in 1966 and also worked at the Frontier, Marina, Flamingo, Tropicana and Luxor. He worked at the MGM Grand and, fortunately, he ended his shift two hours before the tragic fire broke out. Don finished out his career in 2002 at Bally’s. He was a legend in the dice game because of his outstanding personality, which would draw players to his table. Don was famous for his sense of humor, storytelling and charm which captivated the crowd. People came from far and wide just to throw dice with “The Geez.” He also mentored many dealers that are still on the Strip today. Don enjoyed his time with his family and was a generous provider for their many activities. Don was preceded in death by his wife, Bettye Veasey Wilson; parents, Leland and Verna Wilson; and sister, Sue Coopersmith. He is survived by his beloved daughters, Sherri (Justin) Wilson and Cristy (Liz) Wilson; and his nephews, Lyn Lochridge and Andy Malin. Visitation will be 3-7 p.m. Monday, July 1. Services will be at 9 a.m. Tuesday, July 2, both at Palm Mortuary, 1325 N. Main St., Las Vegas, NV 89101. Burial with military honors following at noon, at Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 1900 Veterans Memorial Drive, Boulder City. Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or a charity of your choice. Please share memories in the guestbook at www.palmmortuary.com