A well-known former Hudson Valley diner owner has died at the age of 63. 

John Daskalis owned the Johnny D’s diners in Middletown and Newburgh. 

He sold the businesses several years ago and moved to Myrtle Beach, where he opened three Johnny D’s waffle houses.

Daskalis died Monday from pancreatic cancer, according to a family statement.  

In an emotional Facebook announcement, his daughter said that the Johnny D’s legacy will continue - adding that her father lived for his customers and made sure they were taken care of up until his final moments. 

Daskalis leaves behind his wife, Tesse, their four adult children and two grandchildren.