Chip Reese: Tributes from Doyle, Todd and Gus

Adulation for Chip Reese, who died in his sleep at the age of 56 after succumbing to a sudden case of pneumonia, continues to pour in from the poker community.

Doyle and Todd Brunson (through Lara Miller, PR for Card Player) and Gus Hansen have all weighed in.

Said Doyle Brunson:

“I have lost one of my oldest and dearest friends today. He was one of the most unique individuals I have ever known and poker has lost one of the greats today.”

Said Todd Brunson:

“I have lost a mentor and friend today. He was like a family member to me.”

Read Gus Hansen's poignant tribute after the jump below. Or read their statements on 2+2 here and here.

Finally, read Chip's high school alumni website (Centerville, class of '69), where Chip's sister confirms he died from pneumonia, here.

A Tribute to My Friend Chip Reese
December 4, 2007

With the utmost sadness and shock I learned this morning that my buddy Chip Reese is no longer among us. The world just got poorer today with the loss of Chip Reese.

Although it is almost impossible for me to understand, Chip died last night after a sudden case of pneumonia. What makes it even harder to sink in is the fact that I just talked to him last night around 7 PM.

Chip was not only a world class poker player but also a world class individual and I am proud to call him my friend. Chip was the kind of gambler we should all strive to be.

Chip's experience, good spirit and integrity made him the best ambassador for the game and I am certain that the whole poker community will miss him greatly. I, for one, will miss the fierce competition, our friendship and his guidance off and on the poker table.

Chip was extremely gifted and very well respected in the poker world as well as in the business world. His list of achievements is endless with his 2006 WSOP HORSE win as the latest proof of his excellent poker skills.

My thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Chip's family to whom he was always devoted as a father and a father figure. Although it is little consolation, it is my hope that they know of the great legacy that Chip is leaving behind.

Gus

Comments

[Joe Schmo]

What a brilliant player. It is a good thing he won the HORSE tourney last year or his name would be as known as Tom Jacobs, another great player who dies a few months ago.

Who is Tom Jacobs, you say? That is what many people would be saying today if Mr. Resse did not win that HORSE bracelet.