PELHAM – The residents of Pelham are mourning the sudden death of a restaurateur and a staple in the community, Walter Caron, chef and business partner of Nino’s Italian Restaurant.

Caron died Friday, Feb. 8, from a massive heart attack. In the midst of the devastating loss, Nino’s opened Saturday and Caron’s wife was at the restaurant most of the day Saturday. Caron’s partner in the business is sportscaster Eli Gold.

“We will endeavor to stay open during this very difficult time for the Nino’s family,” reads a post on the restaurant’s Facebook page. “We cannot express how much the community support has touched our family.”

Funeral arrangements have been set for Wednesday, Feb. 13, at Charter Funeral Home in Calera. Public viewing will be from 4-6 p.m., with the funeral service beginning at 6 p.m. Charter Funeral Home is located at 2521 U.S. 31.