Steve Pappas Obituary, Cause of Death – Greene Turtle Co-Founder Remembered for His Generosity and Ocean City Legacy
Steve Pappas, the longtime owner of the Original Greene Turtle in Ocean City, Maryland, has died at the age of 72. He passed away on October 28, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of business leadership, community involvement, and generosity that touched countless people throughout the region.
For nearly five decades, Pappas was connected to the restaurant business, helping transform a neighborhood pub into a popular sports bar and a gathering place for generations of customers. Alongside business partner Tommy Dickinson, he helped build the Greene Turtle brand while maintaining strong ties to the Ocean City community.
Beyond his business achievements, Pappas was remembered as a devoted husband and father, a supporter of young athletes, and a friend who was always willing to help others.
Steve Pappas and the Growth of the Greene Turtle
Pappas began working at the Original Greene Turtle in 1976. Five years later, in 1981, he and Tommy Dickinson purchased the establishment and began shaping its future as a sports bar where customers could gather to enjoy meals, watch games, and build lasting friendships.
Their business expanded beyond its original Ocean City location. In 1986, they opened a location in Baltimore’s Fells Point neighborhood, and the company began franchising in 2002.
Over time, the Greene Turtle became more than a restaurant. It developed into a familiar gathering place for customers and employees, with a community atmosphere built around shared experiences and long-standing relationships.
As the business marked its 50th anniversary in 2026, Pappas’s role in its history remained an important part of the brand’s story.
A Devoted Husband, Father, and Friend
Away from his professional life, Pappas was remembered for the importance he placed on family and personal relationships. His wife, Dawne Pappas, described him as someone who cared deeply about his loved ones and treated employees with consideration and compassion.
His generosity also extended to friends, colleagues, and people facing difficult circumstances. Those who knew him recalled his willingness to offer financial help, give his time, and connect people with opportunities.
Pappas is survived by his wife, Dawne; his sons, Stephen and Jason; his daughter, Dara; and five grandchildren.
For his family and those who shared his life, his legacy includes the care and support he offered through everyday actions.
His Commitment to Sports and Young Athletes
Sports remained an important part of Pappas’s life throughout the years. He played soccer and lacrosse in college before going on to coach at the college, high school, and youth levels, including teams involving his own children.
His connection to athletics continued through his involvement with Salisbury’s lacrosse program. Former teammates and colleagues remembered his enthusiasm for sports and his commitment to encouraging young athletes.
Pappas also served on Ocean City’s tourism board, contributing to the town beyond his restaurant business. His involvement in athletics and civic activities reflected his interest in supporting local people and organizations.
Steve Pappas Remembered for His Generosity in Ocean City
Following news of his death, tributes highlighted the many ways Pappas contributed to the Ocean City community. Friends remembered his optimism, humor, and enthusiasm for the town, while others recalled his support for local publications, recreation programs, children, and charitable efforts.
He also worked alongside his wife in efforts to promote healthier environments in Maryland bars by supporting the removal of smoking from those establishments.
Former Ocean City Mayor and Maryland state senator Jim Mathias praised Pappas’s support for local businesses and community programs. Mayor Rick Meehan, who had known him for approximately five decades, also reflected on his generosity and the positive influence he had on people around him.
These memories paint a picture of someone whose contribution to the community reached well beyond the business he helped establish.
Honoring Steve Pappas’s Legacy
Steve Pappas will be remembered for helping shape the Greene Turtle into a recognized Maryland sports bar brand and for the personal relationships he maintained throughout his life.
His influence reached employees, customers, athletes, friends, families, and local organizations. Through business leadership, coaching, civic involvement, and personal generosity, he became an important part of the Ocean City community.
As his family, friends, and colleagues mourn his passing, they will continue to remember his enthusiasm for sports, his commitment to helping others, and the many ways he made a difference in their lives.
May his wife, children, grandchildren, and all who loved him find comfort in their memories of Steve Pappas and in the lasting impact of his generosity.
Information Disclaimer: This article is based on the biographical and memorial information provided. The date of death, age, family details, business history, and community contributions have been presented as supplied. The cause of death and funeral or memorial arrangements were not included in the information available for this article and should not be assumed without confirmation from the family or an authoritative source.
