David Siegel, the founder of Westgate Resorts and owner of the iconic Westgate Las Vegas, has passed away at the age of 89. Known for his dedication to preserving jobs, Siegel opted to keep the hotel operational during extensive renovations after acquiring the property in 2014. This decision reflected his commitment to the staff and the legacy of the hotel, which was originally built by Kirk Kerkorian and famously hosted Elvis Presley.
Throughout his career, Siegel was recognized for his hands-on approach and personal connection with his employees. After purchasing the hotel from Goldman Sachs, he famously replaced the marquee’s “L” with a “W,” symbolizing the rebranding to Westgate. He maintained a familial atmosphere within the company, often describing his business as a “big family.”
In addition to his business ventures, Siegel became an advocate against the opioid crisis following the tragic death of his daughter Victoria from an overdose. He and his wife established the Victoria’s Voice Foundation to combat opioid abuse, emphasizing the importance of having Naloxone available to prevent overdose fatalities.
David Siegel’s legacy in the hospitality industry is marked by his transformation of Westgate Las Vegas into a renowned resort and his pioneering efforts in the timeshare sector. Despite his declining health, he remained active in the company until his final days, leaving a lasting impact on the industry and those who worked with him.
His passing is mourned by family, colleagues, and friends, including Raiders owner Mark Davis, who had a close relationship with Siegel during his time in Las Vegas. The Siegel family has requested donations to the Victoria Siegel Foundation in lieu of flowers, continuing David’s mission to fight against the drug epidemic.
