Bill Paganetti, who founded Peppermill Casinos Inc., has died.
He was 85 years old.
Paganetti established the original Peppermill Coffee Shop and Lounge in Reno in 1971 alongside Nat Carasali, who was a lifelong friend according to a release from The Peppermill.
The coffee shop eventually became the Peppermill Resort Spa Casino, and Paganetti would go on to play a major role in the development of other casino properties in the state like Western Village Inn & Casino in Sparks and the trio of Rainbow, Peppermill, and Montego Bay in Wendover, as well as the Peppermill Restaurant and Fireside Lounge in Las Vegas.
"His contributions to the industry and the regions where his businesses operated have left a lasting impact, as well as his history of kindness and generosity," said The Peppermill in a press release.
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office also released a statement on their X page.
"I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the entire Paganetti family for their loss,” said Sheriff Darin Balaam.
Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve also released a statement on behalf of the City of Reno, saying in part "The passing of Nevada icon Bill Paganetti is deeply felt by our community. He was not just a business success at Peppermill Casinos, Inc., but, more importantly, he embodied the true definition of a family man. His most enduring legacy is the boundless love he shared with his wonderful family."
Paganetti was married to his wife Maryanne for more than 50 years and had five children and 19 grandchildren.
