In a somber moment for the poker community, the passing of Crandell Addington, a luminary figure in the world of poker, has left a void that many will find hard to fill. Addington, celebrated as a “No-Limit Hold’Em Legend,” bid farewell at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy etched in the annals of the game he loved.
A Pioneer of Poker
Crandell Addington’s journey in poker began with a pivotal moment in the late 1960s when he played a pivotal role in organizing what would evolve into the renowned World Series of Poker (WSOP). This gathering of the finest poker players and high rollers morphed from the Texas Gamblers Convention in 1969 to the esteemed WSOP the following year.
Addington’s prowess at the table was undeniable, gracing the WSOP final table on seven occasions throughout the 1970s. His remarkable skill set a standard that endures to this day, earning him the accolade of a “No-Limit Hold’Em Legend,” as affectionately dubbed by his close friend, Doyle Brunson.
A Legacy Beyond Poker
Beyond his achievements in poker, Addington’s entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly. Recalling the grit and camaraderie of the era, he shared anecdotes of carrying guns in those early days, not as tools of aggression but as safeguards against potential threats. Such stories underscore the challenges faced by pioneers of the game.
Following his retirement from poker in the mid-1980s, Addington ventured into the business world, founding successful ventures including an oil business in Texas. His commitment to innovation extended to co-founding Phoenix Biotechnology in 2003, where he served as chairman and CEO until health concerns necessitated his resignation.
A Philanthropic Heart
Addington’s impact transcended the realms of poker and business. Throughout his life, he remained dedicated to philanthropy, supporting numerous animal charities and championing educational endeavors for his loved ones.
As the poker world bids farewell to one of its brightest stars, Crandell Addington’s memory will endure not only through his remarkable achievements but also through the lives he touched and the causes he championed.
