DALLAS — Long-time Dallas restauranteur Al Biernat has died after a battle with a rare version of ALS, sources confirmed to WFAA. He was 69 years old.
In February, the Biernat family announced his diagnosis of Bulbar-onset, a more aggressive form of ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, that attacks the face and neck.
In a Facebook post from September, Biernat posted for the final time, saying "Thank you for the loving kindness and prayers. I am signing off of Facebook because I no longer have the strength or dexterity in my hands to post or respond. You have been more than supportive. I appreciate your friendship and prayers."
Biernat was a legend in the Dallas restaurant industry. In 1998, Biernat and his wife Jeannie opened the restaurant Al Biernat's on Oak Lawn Avenue. Fuller worked alongside his uncle and is currently the director of operations and will continue to run it. Six years ago, they opened another location on Spring Valley Road.
A celebration of Al's life is set for 10:30 a.m. Dec. 2 at First Baptist Dallas, followed by a private reception for family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to I AM ALS or The ALS Association.