Palermo's Pizza founder Gaspare "Jack" Fallucca died today at the age of 82.

Chris Dresselhuys, director of marketing at Palermo Villa Inc., issued the following statement on Fallucca's passing:

"The entire Palermo's Pizza family is deeply saddened to announce that our company's beloved founder, Gaspare "Jack" Fallucca (Papa Palermo), entered into eternal life this morning at the age of 82 from natural causes. He will be dearly missed.

"Papa Palermo is a legendary figure and pioneer in the frozen pizza business. He brought numerous innovations to our industry."