Don Theobald, who died Thursday, July 26, was what many would call “The Host with The Most”.  A lifelong veteran of the gaming industry, Mr. Theobald earned his stripes working at every one of the St. Louis casinos as well as The Luxor in Las Vegas, Nevada serving as an Executive Host.  Don treated everyone, regardless if they were a high roller or not, with respect. 

Throughout his career and personal life, Don dedicated himself to taking care of others from lobbying political issues on Capitol Hill with United States Congressman Jerry Costello to coordinating and hosting special events and benefits not only for casino players, but his friends and family.  Above everything else, Don took pride in helping connect others and making sure they were happy and having a good time. 

Mr. Theobald was born on March 15, 1954 in Red Bud, IL.  From an early age, Don displayed a hard work ethic and sense of community which was instilled by his parents, Charles Junior and Alma Jean Theobald.  In 1973 Don left Red Bud to attend Wyoming State College where he joined Sigma Chi Fraternity.   Don also attended Belleville Area College and sat on the Board of Trustees for several years – at the time, he was the only student to serve in that position.   

In the 1980’s, Don began his career in the gaming industry starting as a Blackjack and craps dealer at the Alton Belle.   The former Stations Casino even created a special position for Don since he was such a natural communicator.  Don would go on to work at Ameristar and Harrah’s serving as Business Development Manager and Executive Host respectively.

In 2010, after a lucrative stretch of employment in Las Vegas, Don moved back home to St. Louis in order to be closer to his family and friends.  He was hired by Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. to serve as an Executive Host at Lumiere Place and River City Casino.

Don endowed a natural way of connecting people and created a network of friends who he referred to as his family.  His “family” consisted of friends from high school, college and work colleagues to local and national celebrities.  One of his favorite past times would be to organize dinners and invite members of his eclectic group to eat, drink and share their special stories and memories with one another.

Don loved to travel, take photographs, and spend time with his family and close friends.

His loss will be deeply felt by all who knew him.

Preceding him in death were his parents.  He is survived by his brother, Mark Theobald; his son and dauther-in-law, Adam and Sarah Theobald; and his grandchildren, Samantha "Sammie" Fairbridge and Charles "Charlie" Theobald.

A Memorial Celebration will take place Saturday, August 4, 2012 from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Express, 13735 Riverport Drive, St. Louis, MO.