Local reaction to the passing of Bill Lutes

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Family and friends are remembering the life of local co-owner for Lutes Casino, Bill Lutes.

Bill passed away at the age of 88-years-old on January 23.

Bill, along with his brother, Bob Lutes, helped transform Lutes Casino into the iconic Yuma restaurant it is today.

The brothers took ownership of the establishment in the 1960s.

Bob reminisced about his time building up the restaurant’s business.

"It wasn't easy but we didn’t have any choice, it was sink or swim but it was a good ride and many memories," says Bob.

He says he will always remember his brother.

"I miss him, he was a big asset, he could fix machines, play the piano, we were a good team," Bob explains.

Bill’s nephew, Mike Lutes, says his uncle  was essential in developing the restaurant.

"He was a building block, I mean they went through some rough times starting out too, this place was only half the size so he would always come and play the piano during lunch during the winter season, him and my dad really started this and made it take off," says Mike.

He shares what the restaurant meant to his uncle and what it means to his father.

"Well, it probably meant everything to my uncle and my father also, it still does, my father still works everyday, comes in about two-three hours a day, he's 90 so they worked a lot to get this place going," Mike says.

The family says they plan to hold a celebration of life sometime in the spring.