One of Michigan’s most-beloved restaurateurs has died.

Detroit resident Olga Loizon, who founded Olga’s Kitchen in 1970, passed away on Jan. 21 surrounded by family. She was 92.

Best known for her signature Original Olga gyro, Loizon’s oversaw Olga’s Kitchen as it grew from a 10-by-10 space in Birmingham to a 26-restaurant staple across Michigan, breaking barriers along the way.

The second-born daughter of Greek immigrant parents, she overcame a series of obstacles and became the first woman to secure a business loan from her local bank.

She eventually sold the concept to private investors in 1976 and Olga’s Kitchen was purchased by Michigan-based TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants in late 2015.

However, Loizon remained active in the business, often hosting “Olga Visits” at restaurants to meet and interact with her beloved fans

“Our beloved mother and grandmother lived a long, happy and successful life that has always amazed and inspired each one of us. It is beautiful to hear countless stories of how she inspired so many others with her accomplishments,” said her son, Bill Loizon.

“She loved her family beyond measure. Her passion for her work and Olga’s Kitchen was unmatched, marketing for the brand at every turn."

"We are so proud of her legacy and know she and her story will continue to serve as an esteemed role model and inspiration for entrepreneurs, especially fellow females with the drive to make their dreams a reality. She will never be forgotten and will forever be missed.”

The Detroit Greek Independence Day Committee awarded Loizon the Greektown Preservation Society Award for her contribution to Greek culture in Michigan in 2017. She is also the recipient of the prestigious 2011 Esteemed Women of Michigan award.

“Olga Loizon was a Detroit original whose trademark was to leave everything she touched wrapped in love—from creating her Original Olga and meeting with our loyal guests, to caring for her family and supporting her community,” said Mark Schostak, executive chairman of TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants.

“While she will be dearly missed, her legacy will forever live on with Olga’s Kitchen, and we will proudly continue her vision of delighting guests for decades to come in her honor.”

Private funeral arrangements are pending. Public condolences can be made on Olga’s Kitchen’s Facebook page, sent to 17800 Laurel Park Drive North, Ste. 200C, Livonia, MI 48152, or made in person at any Olga’s Kitchen restaurant.

The Loizon family has requested that check donations be sent to the Olga Loizon Memorial Fund at 17800 Laurel Park Drive North, Ste. 200C, Livonia, MI 48152.

Donations made to the foundation will benefit young women with a passion for entrepreneurship.