Brooklyn, New York — The Brooklyn community is mourning the loss of Donna Siafakas, the longtime owner of the legendary Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop, whose warm smile and dedication helped make the neighborhood bakery one of New York City’s most beloved destinations for more than three decades.
According to her obituary, Siafakas died on June 30 at the age of 69, leaving behind a lasting legacy built on family, tradition and generations of loyal customers.
The beloved bakery announced her passing with a handwritten sign displayed on its front door, informing customers that the shop would temporarily close to honor the woman who had become the heart of the business.
Family Bakery Announces Temporary Closure to Honor Donna
Customers visiting Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop this week were greeted by a handwritten message featuring a drawing of a dove.
The notice read:
“We will be closed Wed, July 8th to honor our beloved Donna.”
For many longtime patrons, the announcement marked the loss of someone who had become just as much a part of the neighborhood as the famous donuts themselves.
The bakery’s temporary closure will allow family members, employees and the local community to celebrate Donna’s life and pay their respects.
More Than Three Decades of Family Ownership
Donna and her husband, Christos Siafakas, became the owners of Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop in 1993 after previously operating a diner together.
Over the years, the couple transformed the bakery into a true family-run business. Their sons, Demetri and Spyros, joined the operation when they were old enough, while Donna’s sister also became involved in preparing and serving the bakery’s signature pastries.
The bakery’s website proudly describes its close-knit operation:
“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.”
That commitment to family helped preserve the shop’s traditions even as the surrounding Greenpoint neighborhood evolved over the years.
A Brooklyn Landmark Loved Far Beyond New York
Originally established in the 1950s, Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop has become one of New York City’s most recognizable neighborhood bakeries.
The shop is especially known for its classic yeast and cake donuts, many of which continue to be made using original family recipes that have remained largely unchanged for decades.
Its reputation eventually expanded far beyond Brooklyn.
The bakery even gained Hollywood recognition after being recreated for a scene in the blockbuster film “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” starring Zendaya and Tom Holland, introducing the iconic shop to audiences around the world.
Community Shares Heartfelt Tributes
Following news of Donna’s passing, friends, neighbors and longtime customers flooded her online obituary with heartfelt messages remembering her generosity and kindness.
“Walk with the Angels in Paradise where there’s no pain or sickness. Thank you for your Kindness.”
Another mourner wrote:
“The world has lost a truly special person. She touched so many hearts, including mine, and her kindness will never be forgotten.”
According to her obituary, a funeral Mass for Donna Siafakas will be held at Our Lady of Mount Carmel on Wednesday, as family members, friends and members of the Brooklyn community gather to celebrate a life devoted to family, hard work and serving others.
Have you ever visited Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop or have a favorite neighborhood business that feels like family? Share your memories and condolences respectfully in the comments below.
