Ray Ryan (businessman)

Raymond John Ryan (January 9, 1904 in Watertown, Wisconsin – October 18, 1977) was an American professional gambler, oilman, promoter, and developer.

Described as having a larger-than-life personality, he mingled with prominent businesspeople and movie stars, as well as with cardsharps and mobsters on his path to fame and fortune.

His oil business was managed by Kentucky native, William "Billy" Gorman, who died in a mysterious horse riding accident in 1974.

Real estate development in Palm Springs did not generate much interest until actor Clark Gable built a home there.

The list of regular guests included William Holden, Dean Martin, Gregory Peck, Paulette Goddard, Ginger Rogers, Louella Parsons, and Freeman Gosden, among others.