A beloved Belmont restaurant has lost its owner due to coronavirus-related complications.

Mario's Restaurant in the Bronx is closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, and when it reopens, it will be without its heart and soul.

Family members say Joseph Migliucci, also known as "Papa Joe," died Monday morning at White Plains Hospital due to COVID-19 at the age of 81.

His family could not embrace each other as they stood outside his restaurant Tuesday due to social distancing.

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The family-run business has been around for more than 100 years, and was named after Migliucci's father, Mario.

Peter Madonia, the owner of Madonia Brothers Bakery on Arthur Avenue, says that Joseph Migliucci was like family.

He describes Joseph Migliucci as the patriarch of the community, and was a loving, gentle fixture. Madonia says even in Joseph's last days, he was a fighter who cared about his family, friends and restaurant.

Joseph Migliucci leaves behind a family including 16 grandchildren. His children are now fifth-generation owners.