Adolph (Al) John Beczkala Jr. passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2025. He leaves behind his wife of 55 years, Barbara (nee LoGaglio). Together they raised two sons, Al (Becky) and Patrick (Stephanie), who gave him his greatest joy – four grandchildren: Jeremy (Lindsey), Corey (Lisa), Brooke, and Peyton. Al was the son of the late Adolph (Al Sr.) and Helen (nee Schalk), the loving brother of the late Marlene Torimino, Linda (Ron Burbes), and Roger (Kim). He was also “Uncle Al” to many nieces and nephews and a loyal friend to anyone lucky enough to know him.
Al’s story began at St. Martin of Tours in South County, where he spent his grade school days before heading to Christian Brothers College (CBC) High School. His love of baseball carried him to SIU-Carbondale on a scholarship, and after two years he transferred to Washington University in St. Louis. There he wrapped up both his baseball career and his business degree.
After graduation he joined his parents at Al’s Café. Eventually, becoming the fourth–and final- generation to run the restaurant and tavern. If you ever had one of his double cheeseburgers or witty remarks, you know why people came back again and again. When he closed the doors for the last time on February 28, 2020, it wasn’t just the end of a restaurant—it was the end of an era, carried on in the memories of everyone who shared a beer or a burger there.
Al was known for his humor, his kindness, and his ability to make everyone feel like family. Whether it was telling a story across the bar, coaching from the dugout, sharing a laugh, dancing at Midwest Club Dance (where he was a member for over 30 years), or hunting with his sons, he left a mark that won’t be forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to BackStoppers.
A memorial dinner to celebrate Al’s life will be held on Monday, September 15, 2025 from 4:00-8:00 PM at Royale Orleans Banquet Hall, 2801 Telegraph Road, St. Louis, MO 63125.
Al was one of best guys I knew… feel blessed to have known him.
I am certain he will rest in peace. My deepest condolences to Miss Barb and Pat.
I survived on Al’s double cheeseburgers…what a great family!!
Many a good times there at the bar. Al you are missed.
I referred to Al as “Coach”, or “Pappy” if I wanted to rile him up! One of the best people ever! I am sure “Barbie Doll” and the rest of the family will sorely miss him, I know I will! Rest in peace Coach! P.S. – Coach, tell Bear I said hello!
Bert
This picture of Al is exactly how I will always remember him! Always with a smile on his face! Al provided all of us at Schaeffer a great place to hang out!!!! Barb and Pat and families, you have my deepest sympathy 🙏
Actually Karen Prange! Not Orange
Al was one of a kind thankfully,he had a heart of gold and we all loved going to Al’s Cafe for coffee break and some even ate there ay their own peril just kidding it was always good eats and fast. Al had a pet name for me “dumb plumber”it took a while but it grew on me.To all of Al’s family thank you for sharing Al with all of us Al may be gone but will never be forgotten cheers Al cheers
Eating at Al’s was always a treat along with Al’s presence. Miss the great lunch hangout and gatherings.
Al was incredibly kind and sweet. He generously let our Mardi Gras Krewe-Weekend Society for the Prevention of Sobriety-build our float in his Cafe’s lot. Starting parade day with Al and his family at the Cafe was a great party. He will be sorely missed and fondly remembered. Laissez les bond temps roulet.