BY ROBIN MIMNA 

After nearly four decades of serving the Lake Helen community, Papa’s Pizza closed its doors on Saturday, Dec. 14. The beloved pizzeria, a cornerstone of the town since its founding in 1987 by Richard and Margaret Buckler, leaves behind a legacy cherished by generations.

The Bucklers’ journey began in a pizza shop in Monroe, Michigan, where the couple discovered the recipe that would define their business. 

“A lot of people don’t know that’s where our recipe comes from,” Margaret Buckler shared. 

The couple refined their craft while working at a pizza shop in Toledo, Ohio. Armed with experience and a vision, they moved to Lake Helen and launched Papa’s Pizza in a modest building near Ohio Avenue and Cassadaga Road. As the business grew, the restaurant relocated to Brock Plaza on Lakeview Drive.

Richard Buckler, affectionately known as “Papa” to his seven grandchildren, was more than a business owner. For years, he volunteered to run the kitchen at Trinity Christian Academy in Deltona, offering his services free of charge. 

“He loved helping people,” Margaret recalled fondly.

In addition to the pizzeria, Margaret established Buckler Shows, which organizes the annual Lake Helen Strawberry Festival. As her business flourished, Papa’s Pizza was passed down to their son, Jon Berneth.

Though ownership changed hands several times, the pizzeria remained committed to its original name. In 2006, brothers Chen and Josh Cuda, then just 20 and 21 years old, respectively, took over Papa’s Pizza. The transition was not without challenges, particularly during the Great Recession. 

“We refinanced our house and barely hung on,” Josh shared. “It took everything we had. We worked there ourselves, and held on to our dream.” 

Eight years ago, Josh sold his share to Chen, who balanced managing the restaurant with earning a degree in IT.

In a heartfelt announcement shared on Lake Helen Facebook groups, Chen revealed the decision to close Papa’s Pizza after 18 years. “It’s time for me to close a chapter that has been one of the most fulfilling of my life,” he wrote. The news resonated deeply with loyal customers and former employees.

“I’m so sad by this,” commented Tina Schick. “My whole family loved this place.”

A former employee, Hunter Leigh, said, “I worked at Papa’s for a short time before my son. Then, I pursued other opportunities. “I can honestly say Chen was the best person to work for.”

Although Papa’s Pizza is closing, its spirit will live on in a new venture. Brothers Luigi and Domenico Schiano, former owners of Roma Pizza in Sanford and Deltona, will open a new Roma Pizza in Lake Helen. Specializing in New Jersey-New York-style pizza, the new restaurant will carry on the tradition of a family-owned establishment. 

“We are a family business. My brother and I will be running it ourselves,” Luigi Schiano said. 

For Chen, ensuring the restaurant’s legacy continued in capable hands was essential. 

“I had a lot of offers, but the viability of the idea was a key factor in who I sold it to,” he explained. “More than anything, I want to thank the people of Lake Helen for their incredible support over the years.”

As the community says goodbye to Papa’s Pizza, a new chapter of family-run dining begins, ensuring that the tradition remains alive in Lake Helen.