The matriarch of a beloved family-owned Brooklyn pastry shop died last week after spending over three decades slinging donuts and serving locals, according to her next of kin.
Donna Siafakas, owner and operator of Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop in Greenpoint, died on June 30 at the age of 69, according to an obituary.
Siafakas’s death was announced with a handmade sign posted on the legendary donut shop’s front door.
“We will be closed Wed, July 8th to honor our beloved Donna,” the handwritten sign – which is flourished with a drawing of a dove – states.
Siafakas became proprietor of the long-standing Brooklyn establishment in 1993, purchasing and running the business alongside her husband, Christos. The two had previously run a diner together.
Their sons Demetri and Spyros joined as soon as they came of age, keeping the business firmly a family affair and unchanging in a rapidly changing neighborhood.
“Peter Pan at its core is a family institution as Christos and Donna’s sons as well as Donna’s sister take part in baking and serving the donuts and pastries,” according to the pastry shop’s website.
The renowned Brooklyn bakery — which has been around since the 1950s — is beloved for its donuts, including both yeast and cake varieties crafted from original recipes developed by the family.
The neighborhood staple has even reached national renown – having been recreated for a scene in the Marvel blockbuster “Spider-Man: No Way Home” starring Zendaya and Tom Holland.
Longtime customers and well-wishers took to the pastry matriarch’s digital obituary to express their condolences.
“Walk with the Angels in Paradise where there’s no pain or sickness. Thank you for your Kindness,” posted one.
“The world has lost a truly special person. She touched so many hearts, including mine, and her kindness will never be forgotten,” another said.
A funeral mass for Siafakas will be held at Our Lady of Mount Carmel on Wednesday.
