Longtime Topeka Taco Shop owner dies

TOPEKA (KSNT) - A taco shop that has served the Capital City for over 60 years shared with heavy hearts the passing of its owner.

On Monday, Sept. 9, Taco Al's announced on social media that Al Ward, also known as Taco Al, had passed away after battling health issues for the past few months. According to the post, Ward died surrounded by family and his wife of 65 years.

Taco Al's was opened as Taco Casa in July 1963. Later on July 17, 2018, Ward and his wife retired the Taco Casa name and the Taco Man caricature to adopt the name Taco Al's.

Ward was The Boobie Trap’s landlord for 27 years. During the pandemic, Ward told The Boobie Trap and every other business in the building to forget about the rent for two months.

“I’d rather have them make money and stay in business than go broke paying me extra rent,” said Ward. “I just think it’s important for me as a small businessman to give back to the community. I like to help people.”

Taco Al's said it would release more information about Ward's passing in the coming days.

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