Whenever something like gambling is not been communicated openly in relationships it initiates hatred,distrust, emotional distance and seperation.No matter what it is,a solid foundation of transparency in relationships should be evenly nurtured and present.Relationships should have conversations about personal affairs that sparks honesty&trust.
The guys must have been an addict to have made away for such a long period of time gambling without his spouse knowing, this is mastering if you ask me and sure is enough to cause a distrust in their relationship, and aside that he may have committed other offenses that combined to the spouse anger to get him out of her life in the end