Olga's Kitchen founder Olga Loizon dies at 92

(FOX 2) - Olga's Kitchen founder Olga Loizon died Monday at 92.

Loizon, originally from Detroit, opened the first Olga's Kitchen in Birmingham in 1970. She sold the concept to private investors in 1976. 

The second-born daughter of Greek immigrants, she created the concept for the restaurant after a trip to Greece.

Loizon became the first woman to secure a business loan from her local bank. Her namesake restaurant grew from her original vision, and as of 2016 there were 25 locations in Michigan and one in Illinois. 

She is survived by her husband, John Loizon, three children Emily Kontos, Bill Loizon and Ernest Loizon and two grandchildren, Angelo Kontos and Katina Kontos.

"Our beloved mother and grandmother lived a long, happy and successful life that has always amazed and inspired each one of us," said Bill Loizon, her son. "It is beautiful to hear countless stories of how she inspired so many others with her accomplishments. She loved her family beyond measure. Her passion for her work and Olga's Kitchen was unmatched, marketing for the brand at every turn. She will never be forgotten and will forever be missed."

Private funeral arrangements are pending. Public condolences can be made on Olga's Kitchen Facebook page or sent to TSFR Headquarters at 17800 Laurel Park Drive North, Ste. 200C, Livonia Michigan, 48152.

For more on Loizon's legacy, go to olgas.com In lieu of flowers, the family requested that donations be made to the Loizon Memorial Fund 17800 Laurel Park Drive North, Ste. 200C, Livonia, MI 48152 which will benefit young women with a passion for entrepreneurship.