Alan “Famous Uncle Al” Stein

VIRGINIA BEACH – Alan Stein, also known as “Famous Uncle Al,” passed away on January 11, 2025.

Alan was born in New York on February 7, 1937, and lived a long and storied life. He was the son of the late Sam and Irene Stein. He was a veteran of the US Army. While residing in New York he was a professional bowler, managed a bowling alley, and owned a sporting-goods store.

In 1974, Alan (Al) moved his family to Virginia Beach where he worked as site superintendent for Sir Galahad Homes. He made a name for himself at the old Tidewater Racquet Club as one of the best racquet ball players in town and was willing to challenge anyone to a match until he was in his early 70’s.

Al was an avid fan of men’s slow-pitch softball and played for years in the Tidewater area. He loved to play poker, regularly playing with his friends and associates for many years.

Al opened his first restaurant, Steins Delicatessen, in Pembroke Mall and later opened Al’s Fast Foods on Atlantic Avenue. Eventually, Uncle Al (a name he was proudly dubbed at a niece’s wedding reception) opened a little restaurant on Shore Drive called Famous Uncle Al’s Hot Dogs and Fries. Over the years numerous other locations of Famous Uncle Al’s Hotdogs were opened with Uncle Al’s involvement, some of which are still in existence today. He was particularly proud of his role in bringing the New York style Boars Head Brand of hot dogs to Tidewater.

Quick to smile and an avid conversationalist, Uncle Al’s character had a way of fostering laughter, excitement, and memorable moments. Those memories of Uncle Al will last in the hearts and minds of the fans of his unique personality.

Alan Stein is survived by a sister, a son and a daughter, several grandchildren, a great grandchild, and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of his life was held in H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts., Laskin Rd Chapel. Charitable donations can be made to Hope for Life Rescue, 610 Jack Rabbit Road, Suite3, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.

Online condolences may be made to his family at hdoliver.com.