Dominic Ruggiero, the patriarch and former owner of the popular Yonkers restaurant Dom & Vinnie's, died Thursday from COVID-19. He was 87.

Ruggiero and his brother-in-law, Vinnie, opened up the restaurant in 1971 in Ardsley. They moved to Yonkers 36 years ago and created a spot that has always been known for their welcoming spirit and its Italian cuisine.

He was a father of three, a grandfather and a great-grandfather. His son, Joe, is running the restaurant with Vinne’s son. Joe says he’s right where his father would want him to be.

“My father has always taught me, treat your customers like family,” he said. “I think he's had an incredible positive affect on the community.”