Alvin "Al" Cohen's Obituary
Decatur - Alvin "Al" Cohen, loving husband of Melissa “Missie” Cohen, passed away Sunday, January 12, 2025. He was born on May 30, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, to Mitchell and Adeline (Fishman) Cohen, both Jewish immigrants. Al was later joined by his younger brother, Jerry Cohen.
The family eventually settled in Tuscola, Illinois, where they owned and operated Mitchell's Department Store for over 30 years. Al graduated from Tuscola High School in 1965 and attended the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana before embarking on a career with the Lum's Restaurant Corporation. His work as a manager and district manager took him to Lansing, Michigan; Green Bay, Wisconsin; Merrillville, Indiana; and Bradley, Illinois, before he purchased the Lum's in Decatur, Illinois, in 1979 and settled there.
Al had three children with his first wife, Nancy: Tricia (Mason) Armour, Natasha Cohen, and Joshua (Heather) Cohen. When he married Missie, he gained a bonus son, Austin. Al was a loving grandfather to five grandchildren—Stephanie, Sasha, Kameryn, Isaac, and Kaden—and a proud great-grandfather to five great-grandchildren: Trenton, Ciara, Carlei, Robert, and A'Riyah. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Carol Cohen, three nieces, many special cousins, and countless friends who admired his kindness, humor, and generosity.
Al was preceded in death by his parents, Mitchell and Adeline Cohen, his brother, Jerry Cohen, and his great-grandson, Trenton Rowan.
He was a familiar face at Gabby’s, often greeting customers from his spot at the front table. He had a passion for hosting weekly poker games, watching sports and sci-fi, and relaxing with Missie and their dogs, Mia and Tucker. Known for his intelligence, generosity, and entrepreneurial spirit, Al owned and operated eight restaurants over 45 years in Decatur, Macon, Taylorville, and Mt. Zion, including Whits Ends and Coz's. Throughout his entrepreneurial journey, Al worked closely with his business partner, Carl, building a legacy in the restaurant industry.
His legacy of love, hard work, and kindness will be cherished by all who knew him.
Visitation will be Friday, January 17, 2025, from 9 AM until the service time of 11 AM, at the Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Fairlawn Cemetery.
What’s your fondest memory of Alvin?
What’s a lesson you learned from Alvin?
Share a story where Alvin's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Alvin you’ll never forget.
How did Alvin make you smile?
