Poker Night in America's Joe Sartori Dies Aged 55
October 31, 2014 11:33 amOn Wednesday, October 29th, Joe Sartori, 55, passed away following a brief battle with inoperable stomach cancer. The long time poker industry stalwart and much respected member of the TV show ‘Poker Night In America’ (PNIA) will now be sorely missed by his family, friends and colleagues alike, and following his untimely demise, poker historian Nolan Dalla, wrote:
“Joe was a gentle soul, who worked hard, and loved life. He was best known for his tireless and often varied work within the poker industry. He started out at Palace Station and later the Palms, in Las Vegas. Joe also worked at Casino Morongo, near Palm Springs. For the past two years, he worked exclusively at the television show, ‘Poker Night in America,’ owned by Rush Street Gaming.”
With his vast experience in the poker industry, Heartland Poker Tour founder Todd Anderson saw Joe Sartori as an ideal fit for his new TV show ‘Poker Night in America’ and two years ago subsequently hired him to be the show’s floor man. Recounting one of his fond memories of Sartori, Anderson said that a year ago a truck full of PNIA equipment urgently needed to be delivered from Reno to Pittsburgh, and so Joe along one other person, volunteered then drove the truck non-stop to ensure it got there in time.
Throughout the industry, many of Joe Sartori’s friends and colleagues have their own stories to tell of a good man known for his hard work ethos, and always having a smile for all. Joe Sartori Rest In Peace (1959-2014).
Following announcement of his passing, there has been an outpouring of condolences from members of the poker playing community, including the following:
Greg Mueller
“I’m Very sorry to hear of the passing of @joesartori He was always smiling and in great spirits!! A big part of @PokerNightTV #RIP buddy!!!”
Layne Flack
“@PokerNightTV It truly is a sad day. Joe certainly was one of the good guys. He will be missed for sure.”
Karina Jett
“@nolandalla thanks for the great tribute to @joesartori. RIP my friend. Condolences to the friends and family of the Sartori family.”