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, communication is vital in relationship.
Of course some people can keep secrets, but it's no more what is expected when it's about husband and wife or those in a relationship, because they are not expected to hide anything from each other any longer, if you know gambling is what can upset your partner in relationship, it's either you stopped it or end the relationship, but when both agreed to be on the same page, things wouldn't mixed up and everyone continue to get each other disappointed all because of gambling.