Robert Panitch, also known as "Uncle Krunk" on the tournament circuit, passed away on May 1 at the age of 63. Panitch, a familiar face on the World Series of Poker Circuit, World Poker Tour, and at various Borgata events in Atlantic City, died in his sleep from what is believed to be a heart attack.
Born January 12, 1952, in Chicago, Panitch continued to live in the area for most of his life. According to an obituary published in a Chicago Tribune Media Group publication, Panitch was the "beloved son of the late Milton and the late Mamie Panitch, treasured brother of Alvin Panitch, Joyce Berman, Nancy Panitch, and Richard Panitch, and caring uncle to many loving nephews and nieces.