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AAMA American Amusement Machine Association COIN-OP ICON PASSES AT THE ASI SHOW

Everyone is invited to share their thoughts Click on the link below.  http://coinoptoday.com/bill2/index.php?sid=1c52a1b4afc7f449b9da6eff51ee92ac

Legendary coin-op leader Bill Cravens passed away on March 29th at this year's ASI show in Las Vegas. Bill has been a part of the coin-op family for nearly 40 years, beginning his career with Wurlitzer and ending it charismatically at the industry trade show he helped establish.

Upon his passing, word spread throughout the ASI trade show floor with close friends sharing both tears and laughter as they reminisced of their memories with Bill.
Cravens is survived by his wife Marilyn, sons Todd and Ryan who both work with Betson and daughter-in-law Alicia, who also is involved in the amusement business.
Todd said this to RePlay, "I would like to thank the members of the industry for their outpouring of support over the passing of my father. My mother, brother, Ryan and I cannot begin to tell you how much it means to our family.  I am truly humbled by the sheer amount of people that cared for my father.
"I believe the reason my father loved this industry so much was evident today. He always felt that regardless of company or competitor people genuinely care for one another in this business.  That was true today.  One minute I received a hug from my boss, Bob Geschine, and the next from my competitor, Vince Gumma.  That meant a lot to him, and it means a tremendous amount to our family."
Bill was heavily involved with both the AAMA and its charitable entity, the American Amusement Machine Charitable Foundation, (AAMCF). He at one point led the ASI show committee as Chairman, and served as President of the AAMCF. Bill was also the recipient of the AAMA Lifetime Achievement award in 2005 and received the Joe Robbins award in recognition for his outstanding participation, contribution and service to the coin-op industry.

Both the AAMA and the AAMCF are currently working on raising funds on behalf of Bill and the Cravens family. Monies raised from this fundraiser will go towards one or more diabetes foundation(s) in Bill’s name. The AAMA is now accepting contributions towards the Bill Craven’s Fund. Please make all checks payable to the AAMCF and send to AAMA headquarters: 450 E. Higgins Road, Suite 201 ? Elk Grove Village, IL 60007.

"I believe he would have wanted them [donations] to go to the AAMCF," said son Todd Cravens. More information on this heart-felt fundraiser will be announced as it becomes available.

AAMA President Mike Rudowicz said, “The AAMA sends its deepest sympathy to Bill’s family. He was a unique personality that will surely be missed by the industry he loved, and who loved him in return.”

The family is tentatively anticipating a Chicago memorial service where friends and colleagues will be welcome. Further information will be announced upon receipt.

May you rest in peace.