Tributes Pour in After Flint’s Beloved Coney Guru Passes Away

Although he may not have the official title, the man that many consider the godfather of the Flint Coney dog has passed away.

Evangelos Papadopoulos passed away at his home in Davison on Saturday (11/30) at the age of 89. 'Angelo,' as he was known to many, was one of the last original owners of Angelo's Coney Island up until 1998.

Angelo's Coney Island - A Decades-Old Flint Staple

Although the popular coney joint may seem like Papadopoulos's namesake, three Angelos are credited with owning the original Angelo's at Davison and Franklin.

Vangel 'Angelo' Nicoloff, Angelo Branoff, and Papadopoulos were among the restaurant's original owners from 1949 to 1998. Carl Paul, Tom W. Branoff, and Tom V. Branoff also had stakes in Angelo's, according to this website.

The restaurant changed hands a few times over the years and was eventually purchased by Tim and Paula Stanek. The couple, who also owned nearby Chilly's bar, told Mlive in 2018 that they poured a great deal of money into Angelo's original location, hoping to keep the tradition alive, but were forced to shutter the location in December of 2018.

A satellite location on Grand Blan Rd. at US 23 remained open for a few more years. That location was owned by MaryAnn Savage, who shut down the restaurant in November of 2022. 

Flint Pays Tribute to 'Angelo'

After news of his passing, tributes to Papadopoulos poured in on several Facebook pages, including this one dedicated to fans of the original location.

From Cynthia:  Best boss ever. RIP, Angelo.

From Tim:  HIs was the best in the entire city of Flint!! Thanks for bringing joy to so many!! R.I.P. Mr. Coney Island King!!

From Shellie:  RIP Angelo.... Thanks for what will remain a staple in my life..... Flint Coney!!

Visitation is planned for Friday (12/6) at Swartz Funeral Home on Hill Rd. from 4 to 8 PM. A funeral service will be held Saturday at 11 AM.

RIP, Angelo.