ROCKY RIVER, Ohio -- Joe Kanaan, co-owner of Joe’s Deli & Restaurant in Rocky River, was hospitalized after testing positive for the novel coronavirus, a family spokeswoman says.

The 72-year-old owner has been at Cleveland Clinic Fairview Hospital since Monday and is stable, family spokeswoman Denise Dufala told cleveland.com.

The restaurant remains closed until further notice.

“Upon learning of the positive test for Mr. Kanaan, the family moved swiftly to close the restaurant, out of concern for their employees and the community,” according to a statement from the family. “The restaurant had been open only for take-out and curbside service since March 16th, and has strictly followed Governor Dewine’s orders, along with additional guidelines from the CDC and FDA regarding kitchen employees.”

Joe's Deli has been a staple of Cleveland's western suburbs since 1994 when Kanaan opened his restaurant at Hilliard Boulevard and Wooster Road near the Interstate 90 interchange. The original restaurant was razed to make way for the 185-seat facility built next door that opened in 2012.

Jeanette Kannan, who co-founded Joe’s Deli with her husband, was raised in the restaurant business.

The family members extended their thanks to their loyal customers and their support during this time. The family declined further comment.

“We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, but please know that the health and safety of our employees and our community is our top priority,” the statement says.