Elaine Wynn, a key figure in the establishment of a glamorous casino-and-resort empire alongside her former husband, Steve Wynn, passed away on Monday at her home in Los Angeles. She was 82 years old, and her daughter, Gillian Wynn, confirmed that the cause of death was heart failure.

Elaines legacy is profound; she played an instrumental role in transforming Las Vegas into a premier global destination. The Wynns arrived in Las Vegas in 1967, a time when the city was in desperate need of revitalization. The once-glamorous allure of the Rat Pack era had faded, and the couple found themselves at the forefront of a renaissance.

At that time, they were not just newlyweds but also parents to a baby, and they already had a foundational understanding of the gambling industry. Steve Wynn had a tumultuous start in the business world; years earlier, he was on a path to attend Yale Law School when a family tragedy struck. His father, who owned a chain of bingo parlors in Maryland and struggled with a gambling addiction, passed away unexpectedly. This left Steve with the responsibility of managing the family business and inheriting significant debts.

Determined to succeed, Elaine and Steve Wynn worked tirelessly in the bingo parlors, diligently paying off their father's debts. Their efforts paid off, leading them to Las Vegas where Steve secured a small stake in a hotel located on the famous Las Vegas Strip. This move marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that would redefine the gambling and entertainment landscape of the city.

In just a decade, with a series of strategic real estate transactionsincluding the acquisition of a prime vacant lot from the reclusive billionaire Howard HughesSteve Wynn made a dramatic impact on the Las Vegas Strip. He took over the struggling Golden Nugget casino and initiated a comprehensive refurbishment. This revitalization was just the first step; Wynn's vision and ambition propelled him toward creating an empire. A significant ally in this venture was Michael Milken, known as the 'junk-bond king,' whose financial acumen helped cement Wynn's plans.

As the Wynns expanded their influence, Elaine emerged as not only a business partner but also a powerful advocate for education, arts, and the Democratic Party. Her contributions extended beyond mere business; she has been celebrated for her philanthropic endeavors and commitment to enhancing cultural life in the communities she engaged with.

Elaine Wynns passing is a notable loss for the Las Vegas community and beyond, as her legacy will continue to inspire future generations in both business and philanthropy.